International Students: Leaving And Returning, What's The Deal?

International students may need to leave their host country for various reasons, including mandatory military service, family emergencies, or financial challenges. While there is no restriction on leaving, students need to ensure they have the necessary documentation to return. This typically includes a valid visa, a recent I-20 with a travel signature, and proof of academic eligibility. Students should also consult with their university's international office and seek approval from their professors to ensure their absence does not affect their academic standing. In some cases, a Leave of Absence (LOA) may be required, which can impact the student's immigration status and SEVIS record. Proper planning and consultation with the relevant university offices are crucial to ensure a smooth departure and re-entry process.

Can an international student leave and come back?

International students can leave and re-enter Canada mid-semester without restriction

International students in Canada with a valid visa can generally leave and re-enter Canada during their studies without restriction. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, international students must ensure they have valid documentation to re-enter Canada. This may include a valid visa or study permit, as well as any other relevant documents such as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). It is important to check the specific requirements based on the student's country of origin and destination.

Secondly, students must maintain their status as full-time or part-time students during each academic semester, excluding regularly scheduled breaks. If a student takes a leave of absence, they must ensure that it does not exceed 150 days, as longer gaps may result in non-compliance with study permit conditions. Students should also be aware that taking multiple leaves, even if they are shorter than 150 days, may impact future immigration applications if an immigration officer feels that reasonable progress is not being made towards degree completion.

Additionally, international students should ensure they have the necessary permissions from their university and are aware of any potential impacts on their academic progress. This includes confirming that they are on track to graduate on time and understanding any prerequisites for future courses. Students should also ensure that any outstanding fees are paid in full before taking a break from their studies.

While there is no restriction on leaving and re-entering Canada mid-semester, international students should carefully consider the potential implications and ensure they meet all the necessary requirements to maintain their student status and comply with the conditions of their study permit.

International students can leave the US mid-semester but may need to reapply for their visa

International students in the US can leave mid-semester, but they must ensure they have the correct documentation to return. Students should be aware that their SEVIS record will be terminated, and they may need to reapply for their visa.

Firstly, it is important to note that international students in the US must be enrolled full-time throughout the academic year. If a student wishes to take a break from their studies, they must apply for an official Leave of Absence (LOA) from their university. This is not the same as taking a reduced course load for medical or academic reasons, which is also an option for international students.

If an international student needs to take a break, they must submit an Immigration Leave of Absence Form to the CIS office at least two weeks before their planned departure date. They should also consult with the Center for International Students, who can advise on the best course of action. If a student leaves without consulting the CIS, their SEVIS record will show an Unauthorized Withdrawal, which may make it harder to return to the US.

When an international student takes a Leave of Absence, their SEVIS record is terminated, and they must leave the US within 15 days. If they are gone for fewer than five months, their F-1 status can usually be reactivated, and they can use the same visa to return. However, if they are gone for longer than five months, they will need to renew their visa before returning to the US. To do this, they must contact the Center for International Students 30 days before their visa appointment. The center will then submit a request to return the student to Active status before the visa interview.

It is important to note that a student visa does not always allow re-entry to the US. In some cases, a student may need a TRV (Temporary Resident Visa) to return. Students should also ensure they have a valid travel signature on their I-20 form, obtained from their international student office, and that they are academically eligible to continue their studies upon their return.

F-1 students must be enrolled full-time throughout the academic year

International students in the United States on an F-1 visa must be enrolled full-time throughout the academic year. However, there are provisions for taking a break from studies, known as a Leave of Absence (LOA). An LOA allows F-1 students to take time off from their academic program. During an LOA, your SEVIS record is terminated until you are ready to return, at which point your record is reactivated, and you regain your status.

To be eligible for an LOA, you must have been in F-1 status for a full academic year (two semesters) prior to your leave. If you are granted an LOA, you must leave the US and cannot remain in the country during your break from studies. If you are taking a leave of fewer than five months, your F-1 status can usually be reactivated, allowing you to maintain your OPT/CPT eligibility and use the same I-20 and visa (if not expired).

If you are planning to take a leave of more than five months, you will need to renew your visa before returning to the US. To do this, you must contact your Center for International Students at least 30 days before your visa interview, so they can submit a request to return you to "Active" status. You will need to ensure that you do not have any holds on your student account and that you have paid off any balance owed to the university before you will be eligible to return.

It is important to note that choosing not to enrol in classes for a semester is not an option for students with medical conditions. Students wishing to take fewer classes or no classes at all must first make an appointment with the International Student Advisor.

To return to the US, students need a valid visa and I-20 with a travel signature

International students are allowed to leave and re-enter the US. However, to return to the US, students need a valid visa and I-20 with a travel signature. The process can be complex, so it is important to understand the requirements and plan ahead.

Firstly, students must ensure they have a valid visa. If a student's visa has expired, they will need to renew it before returning to the US. This may involve a visa interview, and the student's record must be reactivated before the interview. The process can take between one and four weeks, so it is crucial to start the process early.

Secondly, students need to have their most recent I-20 form with a valid travel signature. The travel signature ensures that students are in good standing with their academic institution and are permitted to return to the US to continue their studies. The signature must be obtained from the designated school official (DSO) or the international student office. The travel signature is valid for one year, and students should ensure it is less than six months old when they re-enter the US. If the signature has expired, students can request an updated signature from their school.

Thirdly, students should consult with their international student advisor or office to understand any additional requirements or procedures. For instance, students taking a leave of absence must submit the necessary forms and ensure their SEVIS record is terminated for "Authorized Early Withdrawal," which will not negatively impact their immigration record. They must also depart the country within 15 days of the termination date. If students are taking a leave of fewer than five months, they can usually maintain their F-1 status and use the same I-20 and visa (if not expired).

In summary, international students can leave and return to the US, but they must ensure they have the necessary documentation, including a valid visa and I-20 with a travel signature. It is important to plan ahead and consult with the appropriate offices to ensure a smooth process.

Consult the Center for International Students to avoid issues with SEVIS records

International students in the United States on F-1 or J-1 visas must be enrolled full-time throughout the academic year. If you are considering taking a break from your studies, it is important to consult the Center for International Students to avoid issues with your SEVIS record.

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a web-based system that the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) uses to maintain information on international students and exchange visitors. SEVIS is a critical tool in the mission to protect national security while supporting the legal entry of international students for education and cultural exchange. SEVIS enables the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to ensure proper reporting and record-keeping by schools and exchange visitor programs, maintaining data currency and integrity.

If you are considering taking a semester off, you must consult with the Center for International Students before withdrawing from classes. Failure to do so may result in your SEVIS record being terminated for "Unauthorized Withdrawal." This could make it more difficult for you to return to Active student status and come back to the United States. By consulting with the Center for International Students, your reason for termination will be recorded as "Authorized Early Withdrawal," making it significantly easier to return to Active status.

Additionally, if you plan to be gone for fewer than five months and need to renew your visa before returning, you must contact the Center for International Students 30 days before your visa appointment. The Center will submit a request to return you to "Active" status before your visa interview. This step is crucial to ensuring a smooth re-entry process and avoiding issues with your SEVIS record.

Remember, it is important to plan ahead and be proactive when it comes to managing your SEVIS record. Consult the Center for International Students and follow their guidance to ensure you are taking the necessary steps to maintain your status and facilitate your return to the United States.

Frequently asked questions