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Travel Advisory
Travel Advisory
Winter travel update: International travel remains high risk during this time due to expanded federal agency vetting, travel bans and increased visa delays and denials. We encourage current international students to use the Travel Decision Guide and discuss your plans with an advisor to evaluate your individual travel risks. We discourage students without a valid US visa from travelling home during the winter break as you may not be able to obtain a new visa to return in time for the start of the spring semester.
Key Factors to Consider When Planning International Travel:
Key Factors to Consider When Planning International Travel:
Do you have the necessary immigration documentation to return to the US?
Do you need a travel signature on your I-20? Please see the information under the “Travel Signatures” section.
Do you have a valid US visa?
If not, can you obtain a new visa in time to return before the start of the next semester? Please note visa processing and appointment availability may be delayed due to expanded vetting
If not, are you a national of a country under a current US entry/travel ban?
Are there other current or political events (military conflicts or sanctions) that could impact your ability to travel and/or obtain a visa? For example:
Considerations regarding changes to immigration policies under the current U.S. administration
Consular posts can close without advance notice due to natural disasters or political conflicts
Even with a valid visa, some travelers are denied entry to the US port of entry due to US political sanctions on businesses and nationals of other countries
It is important that you assess your individual situation and evaluate possible risks when making travel plans in the middle of your academic activities. If you do plan to travel, please make sure to read through the travel advice on this page and bring all necessary and recommended documents with you. We recommend joining the email list for the International Students Resource Center, which provides updates about any changes in U.S. policy that may affect international students.
Should I Travel?
Should I Travel?
Should I Travel.pdfTravel Signatures
Travel Signatures
Travel Signatures
For current F-1 students, an I-20 travel signature is valid for 12 months (or until the I-20’s expiration date, whichever is sooner) Travel signatures can only be signed by a DSO (Designated School Official) located in the Center for Global Education.
For those on F-1 Post-Completion OPT/STEM Extension you are required to get a new travel signature every 6 months.
The travel signature is on page 2 of your I-20, if you need a new travel signature, email cge@simmons.edu. You can schedule a time to visit the CGE to have your I-20 signed or email us your current I-20 form for an e-signature.
Renewing your F-1 Visa
Renewing your F-1 Visa
Renewing your visa
Depending on the length of your academic program and duration of your visa, the F-1 visa in your passport may expire during your program of study at Simmons. An expired visa has no impact on your legal status in the U.S. and is not required to complete your Simmons degree. However, if you leave the United States, you must apply for a new F-1 visas before returning to the United States. Students must apply in their country of citizenship at an American consulate or embassy. Visa renewal is discretionary and carries the risk of delay or denial.
The process to renew your F-1 visa is very similar to the process you completed to request your initial visa. Full instructions are available from the State Department here.
In summary, you must:
Complete the Online Visa Application Form DS-160
Schedule an Interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country of citizenship
Gather required documentation
Attend your visa interview-please note that there are new vetting procedures in place. The Embassy may request that you set your social media profiles to public
Additional Considerations
Additional Considerations
Electronic Device Searches at U.S. Ports of Entry: What You Need to Know
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has the authority to search electronic devices, including phones, laptops, tablets and other electronic devices of anyone entering the U.S., including U.S. citizens and non-citizens. These searches can happen at U.S. land crossings and airports. These searches can occur without warrant or suspicion.
Re-Entering the U.S. After Traveling Abroad
Re-Entering the U.S. After Traveling Abroad
Entering the United States
Entering the United States
A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. A visa only allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States.
After you present your passport, visa, and Form I-20 at the port-of-entry, a CBP official will make this decision. Upon admission, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record.
Learn about procedures for students with F visas entering the United States on the CBP website under Arrival Procedures for Students or Exchange Visitors. Learn about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website
Required Documents:
Required Documents:
All F-1 Simmons students must carry the following documents when re-entering the U.S.
A passport (valid for at least six months from the date you return to the U.S.)
A valid F-1 visa (not a requirement for Canadian citizens)
Your most recent form I-20 with a valid travel signature
CGE also recommends students carry the following supplemental documents:
A print out of your most recent I-94 record, available to download here
Evidence of current enrollment as a full-time student at Simmons
You can request an Enrollment Verification form from the Registrar’s Office or print a copy of your Fall 25 course registration
Evidence of financial support, such as a copy of your most recent scholarship letter, bank statement, or tuition payment receipt
Students on Post-Completion OPT and STEM Extension must also carry the following documents:
A Valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
Proof of Employment (for example, your employment offer letter)
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