Travel Abroad on STEM Extension

In the STEM Final Rule, Department of Homeland Security states that students currently on STEM Extension (or who have a STEM Extension application pending) may travel abroad and seek reentry in F-1 status. When traveling outside of the US on STEM Extension OPT, ISSS recommends you carry the following documentation upon reentry to the US:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of reentry
• Valid F-1 Visa that permits multiple entries
• I-20 will a valid DSO travel signature on page 2 (the signature is only valid for 6 months from the date it was signed)
• EAD card
• Proof of employment that you will begin or resume upon return from your trip such as a job offer letter, work contract, or proof of payment from employer

Request a Travel Signature

If the travel signature on page 2 of your most recent I-20 has expired, you can request a new signature by completing the Travel Signature Request in the ISSS Portal.

Travel While Application Pending

The regulations state that your expired EAD card is essentially extended for 180 days past the end date while your STEM application is pending. When you are traveling, be sure to carry your expired EAD card, along with the items listed above, and anything you have received from USCIS in response to your pending STEM Extension application.