Prepare for a hassle-free entry while on OPT or STEM at the US Port of Entry by carrying key documents: your valid passport, F-1 visa, signed I-20, EAD card, and proof of employment. Double-check your I-20 for accurate details, including the DSO endorsement for travel. Be prepared to answer CBP officers' questions about your work, employer, and future plans. Stay confident and courteous while explaining your OPT or STEM status. With the right preparation, you’ll navigate the process smoothly and continue your journey on OPT or STEM. Safe travels!

You can review FAQs about F1 status travel on the official DHS ICE website.

Ideal documentation for re-entry while participating in OPT (or STEM OPT Extension):

• OPT or STEM is approved and EAD card in hand
• Valid Passport (for at least 6 months into the future at the time of US re-entry)
• Valid F-1 visa
• ISS travel endorsement signature not more than 6 months old on page 2 of your I-20 (including OPT or STEM authorization dates detailed on page 2 of your I-20)
• If it is past your OPT start date, all current employment details must be reported through your SEVP Portal account.
• Currently active job reported in your SEVIS record and proof of employment to show at the US Port of Entry (examples: recent paystubs, offer letter, contract, or letter from your employer confirming your employment)
• You must not exceed your allotted unemployment days

If you do not meet the conditions listed above, it may be a risk to travel and re-enter the US. Contact ISS to discuss your situation and advice before traveling.

Alums Participating in STEM Extension: If you are on STEM, you MUST have your new STEM EAD with you when traveling and US re-entry. Travel is not recommended if your STEM Extension is pending and your 12 month OPT time has ended.

Need an updated travel signature? You have two options:

1) Make and appointment with an ISS advisor to get a travel signature on your I-20.

-OR-

2) Digital signatures for travel endorsement purposes on your I-20 are also acceptable by the U.S. Port of Entry. Complete and submit the ISS Travel Signature Request form for alums on OPT. ISS will digitally sign page 2 of your I-20 and send it to you at the email address provided within 3 to 5 business days.

• Once your program end date has passed, ISS recommends avoiding international travel whenever possible until OPT has been approved and you have your EAD in hand to show at the port of entry.
• In general, a student on post-completion OPT with a valid EAD card, proof of employment, a valid passport, and valid F-1 visa who is otherwise admissible may reenter the United States to resume employment.
• If you are unemployed at the time of travel, please remember that the 90 day unemployment rule still applies. If you have reached 90 days of unemployment, you could be denied re-entry into the United States.

Have the following documents with you when reentering the United States while on OPT:

• A valid passport: In most cases, students are required to have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to enter the United Students.
• A valid F-1 visa: Your F-1 visa is your reentry document.
  • If your visa will be expired on the day you reenter the United States, you must obtain a new visa prior to reentering. Renewing your F-1 visa while on OPT is risky, with no guarantee that your visa will be renewed. Contact ISS to discuss your situation and the risks involved in applying for a new visa while on OPT.
• I-20 with OPT recommendation on second page and a current travel signature. While on OPT, a travel signature is valid for six months.
• EAD card
• Proof of Employment. This could be a recent pay stub or job offer letter. The letter should be on company letterhead, signed by your supervisor and should give the start date of employment, salary, and a brief description of your duties.

Warning: Do not attempt to reenter the United States on a B visa or through the visa waiver program while waiting for OPT approval or because you have an expired F-1 visa. Doing so automatically ends your F-1 status and you forfeit your OPT.