Savanna Hoffman
International students in the United States have been advised to be cautious about travelling outside the country due to increased scrutiny at airports and the potential risk of being taken to secondary screening, which can cause delays and missed connecting flights. In addition, the Trump administration's stance on foreign students has caused uncertainty, with around 300 visas revoked due to foreign policy views or criminal history. International students on visas and green cards have been warned to be careful about their level of participation in protests and to consider consulting an immigration attorney.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ability to travel during studies | Yes, but must have the correct documentation and ensure smooth re-entry |
| Required documents | Passport, Form I-20, Form I-94, EAD, visa |
| Passport validity | At least 6 months after the date of re-entry |
| Visa type | F-1, M-1 |
| Length of stay after graduation | 60 days |
| Work allowance after graduation | Yes, for 1 year through the OPT program |
| Work requirement | Must get a job within 90 days |
| Permanent residency options | Marriage to a US citizen, employer sponsorship |
| Advice | Stay vigilant, consult news sources and attorneys, be careful with social media activity |
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What You'll Learn
Visa revocation
International students in the US are required to have a valid passport and visa to enter and re-enter the country. Students must also have their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in hand to re-enter the US. Students are also expected to have their most recent Form I-94, "Arrival/Departure Record", and their Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status", signed by their Designated School Official (DSO).
The US Department of State may revoke non-immigrant visas (F-1, J-1, etc.) of individuals arrested or convicted of driving under the influence or similar offences within the previous five years. Visa revocation in such cases does not necessarily prevent an individual from obtaining a new visa. However, some individuals may only become aware of the revocation upon attempting to return to the US.
The State Department has also implemented expanded screening procedures for visa applicants, including reviewing their entire online presence, such as social media accounts and public social media posts. Consular officers are instructed to vet applicants to "the maximum extent possible" and look for any indications of hostility toward the US or divergence from its "founding principles". This has led to concerns among visa applicants, who fear that their online activity may negatively impact their visa eligibility.
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Travel advice
International students in the US should be aware of the following travel advice. Firstly, it is important to consult your Designated School Official (DSO) before travelling and ensure that your Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status”, is signed and up-to-date. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your planned reentry date, and you should also carry your most recent Form I-94, “Arrival/Departure Record”. It is also recommended to have your DSO’s most current contact information, including a 24-hour emergency phone number.
If you are planning to travel with a laptop or mobile phone, it is advised to set all apps and social media accounts to private and avoid any political activism or protest-related content. This is especially important if you are engaged in political activism or have a criminal history, even if it is minor. In such cases, it is recommended to consult an immigration attorney before travelling.
Additionally, be aware that if you have a pending practical training application, you may receive a request for evidence from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) while travelling. USCIS will only send these requests to your US address, and you are expected to respond promptly.
If you are an F-1 or J-1 student, there is an exception to the rule requiring a valid, unexpired visa if you travel for less than 30 days to Canada, Mexico, or islands in the Caribbean (except Cuba). However, if you apply for a new visa while in these countries, you will not be able to return to the US unless the visa is granted.
Finally, it is important to note that international students on visas could be forced to leave the US if they are temporarily suspended from school. Visa revocations have been occurring, and students are advised to be cautious and familiarise themselves with their legal rights.
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Re-entry requirements
International students may be able to travel during their studies in the United States. However, they must take the appropriate steps to ensure a smooth re-entry.
Firstly, students must ensure they have a valid passport to re-enter the United States. The passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of re-entry. If the passport has expired, but has a valid visa, the old and new passports can be presented together when re-entering the country.
Students must also have a valid visa to return to the United States. Students from Canada are exempt from this requirement.
Students must also have a current SEVIS Form I-20, endorsed for travel and signed by their DSO (Designated School Official) within the last year. The DSO will also need to verify that the SEVIS record is accurate and up-to-date.
Students should also be prepared to present their EAD (Employment Authorization Document) at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate and the port of entry.
Additionally, students may need to provide proof of their SEVIS fee payment, as well as financial support documents (proof of funding).
It is important to note that CBP (Customs and Border Protection) officers decide whether to admit non-immigrants into the United States, and students may be subject to primary and secondary inspections. Therefore, it is crucial to have all the required documentation and to consult with DSO, embassy officials, or a legal advisor before travelling.
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Student activism
International students in the US have a long history of engaging in political activism and advocacy, despite facing several challenges. Safety is a significant concern for international students considering activism, encompassing fears of visa and immigration status repercussions and the taboo of activism in their home countries. Language barriers also play a role, hindering awareness of protests and limiting participation. Nevertheless, international students have demonstrated remarkable political courage, often risking government retaliation.
International student activism in the US spans various forms, including front-stage and back-stage political action. Front-stage activism involves publicly visible protests, demonstrations, and occupations, such as the 2019 blockade of administrative buildings by international students at the University of Victoria, protesting tuition increases. Back-stage activism, as suggested by Janhavi Munde, an international student at Wesleyan University, involves creating change from within through relationship-building and strategic action.
International students have participated in protests against tuition hikes and global geopolitical issues, such as pro-Palestinian demonstrations. They have also advocated for their home countries, like Korean nationals studying in the US after World War I, who drew inspiration from the American Revolution to fight for Korean independence.
International students face unique challenges in navigating the political landscape of their host country, especially when addressing issues from their home countries. This disparity between domestic and international student activism was evident during the Macalester Rock protest, where international students struggled to raise awareness about President Xi's dictatorship in China.
Despite these challenges, international students continue to play a vital role in shaping political discourse and fostering democracy through their activism. They bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the forefront, enriching the educational environment beyond the confines of the classroom.
Regarding the question of whether international students will have to leave the US, there is no indication of a mandatory departure for international students in the provided sources. However, it is essential for international students to maintain valid passports, visas, and documentation to ensure smooth travel and re-entry into the country.
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Post-graduation options
International students in the United States have several options after graduation. Here are some of the most common choices and considerations:
Returning to their Home Country
Many international students choose to return to their home country after completing their studies in the US. This decision may be influenced by a desire to contribute to their home country's development, cultural ties, or personal factors. However, some students may find the transition challenging and may benefit from support or resources to ease their return.
Pursuing Further Education in the US
The US has some of the top graduate schools globally, offering master's and PhD programs. International students may consider continuing their education in the US by applying for graduate programs. However, it is important to note that graduate studies in the US can be highly competitive, costly, and demanding.
Working in the US
International students can explore employment opportunities in the US after graduation. There are various visa options, including the F-1 visa, which allows for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). OPT enables graduates to work in their field of study for up to 12 months, with a possible 24-month extension for STEM fields. CPT, on the other hand, is utilized during the study. To transition from a student visa to a work visa, careful planning is required, and employer sponsorship is often crucial. The technology sector, including companies like Amazon and Google, has shown a notable interest in hiring international students, especially those with STEM degrees.
Additionally, international students can explore other visa options, such as the H-1B visa, which is a work visa that can be challenging to obtain due to its competitive nature and limited availability. Alternatively, they can explore the possibility of obtaining an employment-based immigrant visa (green card), which typically requires labor certification to ensure no qualified US workers are available for the position. However, certain categories, such as individuals with extraordinary abilities or outstanding professors and researchers, may be exempt from this requirement.
Travelling Internationally
International students may also choose to travel internationally during their time of study or after graduation. However, it is important to ensure that they have the necessary documentation, such as a valid passport and visa, to re-enter the United States. Students should consult their Designated School Official (DSO) and review travel guidelines provided by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to ensure a smooth re-entry process.
Compliance with Visa Regulations
Regardless of their plans, international students must remain mindful of their visa status and compliance with US visa regulations. This includes ensuring that their Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," is up to date and endorsed for travel. Additionally, students should be aware of the time limitations associated with their visa status, such as the 60-day "grace period" after graduation, to make informed decisions about their next steps.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a valid passport, a valid visa, and a Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status”, signed by your Designated School Official (DSO) within the last year. If you are an M-1 student, it is recommended that you bring your most recent Form I-94, “Arrival/Departure Record”.
You can leave for up to 5 months without losing your student status. If you leave for longer, you will need to apply for a new Form I-20 and pay the I-901 SEVIS fee again.
Yes, but it is advised that you consult your DSO before travelling and ensure that you have all the necessary documentation. You should also be aware that you may face increased scrutiny at the airport when re-entering the US.
You may be eligible for an F-1 visa renewal. To renew your F-1 student visa, you will need to re-apply from your home country or another country at a US embassy or consulate.
Yes, international students on an F-1 visa can legally work in the US for up to one year after graduation through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. Certain STEM majors can extend OPT for up to two more years.
