School of Law / Golden Gate University (GGU) School of Law: International Students, San Francisco, California / GGU International Law Student Travel Information  
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Travel Resources for International Students

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TRAVEL AND RE-ENTRY INTO THE US

Basic travel documents: You should make photocopies of your travel documents and keep the copies and originals in a safe place.
  • The passport pages that have your passport number, picture and personal information
  • The passport page with the (F-1 or J-1) student visa stamp on it.
  • Both sides of your I-94 Form (Arrival/Departure record), and
  • All pages of your I-20 (or DS-2019) Certificate of Eligibility Form

Re-entering the US after a temporary absence: To be re-admitted to the US after an absence of less than 5 months, the following documents are necessary:

  • F-1 or F-2 visa holders: Valid passport, valid F-1 or F-2 visa, current I-20 Form signed on page (3) three within the past year by an immigration advisor at GGU LAW (ISS), and proof of financial support.
  • J-1 or J-2 visa holders: Valid passport, valid J-1 or J-2 visa, current DS-2019 Form signed within the past year by the J visa sponsor*, and proof of financial support. (*If GGU School of Law issues your DS-2019 Form then bring your document to GGU LAW (ISS) for a travel signature.)

GGU LAW (ISS) Travel Overview 102008.pdf
ARRIVING AT A US PORT OF ENTRY … WHAT TO EXPECT

US Immigration and Custom Enforcement's Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) is committed to facilitating your stay in the United States while you take advantage of our nation's academic, educational and cultural offerings. To enhance security without slowing legitimate travel, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has instituted some changes in the US entry and exit procedures. Careful planning and preparation by international students can ensure that any delay based on these procedures is minimal.

PLAN YOUR ARRIVAL: Students (F-1) and Exchange Visitors (J-1) are allowed to enter the US up to thirty (30) days in advance of the program start date identified on the I-20 or DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility Form.

ALWAYS HAND CARRY YOUR DOCUMENTS: Do not check the following documents in your baggage. If you baggage is lost or delayed, you will be unable to present the documents at the US Port of Entry. As a result, you may not be able to enter the United States.
  • Your passport, valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected stay;
  • Your I-20 or DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility Form

In addition, it is strongly recommended that you also hand carry the following documentation:
  • Evidence of financial resources;
  • Evidence of student status, such as recent tuition receipts and transcripts;
  • Paper receipt for the SEVIS I-901 fee, Form I-797, and
  • Name and contact information for your "Designated School Official", including an emergency contact number.

ARRIVING AT A US PORT OF ENTRY … WHAT A F-1 (STUDENT) CAN EXPECT

ARRIVING AT A US PORT OF ENTRY … WHAT A J-1 (EXCHANGE VISITOR) CAN EXPECT


FAQ for F-Nonimmigrants: Entry and Exit
The Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) made every effort to provide complete answers to these common questions in this Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for F-Nonimmigrants: Entry and Exit. However, each person's individual circumstances differ. So while these questions and answers serve as a general guide, they may not provide all the information you need to determine whether it is appropriate to travel or whether you will be readmitted to the United States. You can contact your Designated School Official (DSO), your embassy or consulate, or your legal counsel for further assistance. Please remember that the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the Port of Entry (POE) decides whether or not nonimmigrants are admitted to the United States. This decision is based upon the facts and circumstances presented at the time you apply to enter.

FAQ for F-Nonimmigrants: Entry and Exit

US Department of State (DoS) Glossary of Visa Terms
Words used in the visa process are specialized. They may not have the same meanings as they do in everyday language. The following terms and their definitions explain how they are used in the visa and immigration process.

Glossary of Visa Terms


Last Modified: October 21, 2008
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