This section contains information for F-1 students who are currently in the U.S. and plan to travel abroad. Prior to leaving the U.S., students are required to visit their ISA for guidance.

Requirements for Travel

• Your immigration status must be in good standing (must be “in status”).
• Information on your I-20 must be up-to-date.
• You must have your I-20 signed for travel by your ISA
• It is recommended that you verify with professors that travel will not interfere with your coursework (if traveling during the semester).

Documents required to travel and re-enter the U.S. as an F-1 student:

• Active, valid I-20 which has been signed for travel by your ISA
• Valid passport, which must be valid for a minimum of six months beyond the re-entry date into the U.S. 
• Valid F-1 visa (except Canadian citizens). If your visa is expired, you must apply for the renewal of your   F-1 visa prior to re-entry into the U.S. 
• Proof of full-time enrollment is recommended, but not required, in the form of a Lone Star College transcript.
• Required entry visa (if necessary) for any countries that you are visiting other than your home country.

Travel during COVID-19:

Due to the COVID-19 situation, you may be subject to additional restrictions upon entry which could impact your ability to return and may interrupt your studies. 

In order to assist you with your decision to travel please review the following resources:

For your safety, we encourage you to be aware of the Coronavirus situation at the place you wish to travel. Also, many countries, including the U.S., have restrictions on who can enter and COVID-related processes for entry. Please review these to determine if your travel is even possible. Requirements such as quarantining before or upon arrival may add to your travel time and delay your arrival.  

• CDC travel advisory
• U.S. restrictions on entry to U.S. if arriving from certain countries – As of October 2020, travelers from Brazil, China, the European Schengen area, Iran, Republic of Ireland, and the United Kingdom require quarantine in a third country before continuing to travel to the U.S.
• U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory
• Embassy/Consulate information on transit and destination country’s entry restrictions
• Embassy/Consulate closures if visa needs to be renewed

Please also be aware of Lone Star College travel restrictions for all employees and students

Please be advised that if you do leave the U.S., you risk not being allowed back in, depending on any new travel restrictions that may occur.