Travel Considerations While on OPT

Summary

This resource provides guidance on travel for Harvard F-1 students who have applied for Post-completion OPT.

I have applied for Post-OPT, can I travel  internationally?

When are you traveling and re-entering the U.S.?What is your OPT application status?Documents you need to re-enter the U.S.:
BEFORE graduation or I-20 program end date
PENDING
  • Valid Passport
  • Valid F-1 visa
  • Valid Travel Signature on current I-20
AFTER graduation or I-20 program end date
PENDING
The HIO does NOT recommend travel at this time
AFTER graduation or I-20 program end date
APPROVED
  • Valid Passport
  • Valid F-1 visa
  • Valid travel signature* on current I-20
  • EAD
  • Proof of OPT employment or evidence of job search

Important Travel Reminders

  • Travel signatures while on OPT are valid for only 6 months.
  • You may request a new travel signature through the Travel Signature Request Form OR by requesting a new I-20 when reporting OPT employment through the HIO's Post-Completion OPT Reporting  Form.
  • Travel and re-entry to the U.S. is permitted with all the necessary documents any time after you have received your EAD from USCIS.
  • Do NOT enter the U.S. using another visa status (e.g., ESTA or B tourist visa, etc.) as this will nullify your OPT application and/or F-1 immigration status.

The HIO provides general guidance on your OPT/STEM OPT application based on information obtained from reliable sources and reflecting our years of experience in working with students. We make every attempt to ensure that we provide you with the most up-to-date information available. Any advice provided to you by our office (including information in this document) does not constitute legal advice, however. The OPT application is a personal application for which you are responsible; the application preparation and USCIS case decision will vary depending on the facts at issue in your particular case. The HIO does its best to provide you with the most current guidance, but please be mindful that USCIS may change its interpretation of these policies, procedures, regulations, and eligibility requirements at any time. The HIO is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from USCIS. 

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