Travel Abroad and Re-entry

General Advice

Make several copies of all of your immigration documents including all Forms DS-2019, I-94 record, and the pages in your passport showing your photo, birth date, passport number, expiration date, and visa. Keep one set of copies in your carry-on luggage, one set in your checked baggage and leave a set with someone who can send them to you if needed.

J-1 scholars should submit a request for a travel signature on Form DS-2019 at least 10 days before travelling.

To Re-Enter the United States You Will Need:

• Valid passport (expiring at least 6 months after the date of re-entry to the U.S.)
• Valid J-1 or J-2 visa
  • Canadian and Bermudan citizens are exempt from the visa requirement
  • see exception below for Automatic Revalidation
• Valid Form DS-2019
  • End date after the date of re-entry to the U.S.
  • Travel signature from ISSS dated within a year of the date of reentry
• All other DS-2019’s related to your current stay in the U.S.
• Copy of J-1’s Letter of Invitation or Letter of Offer
• Proof of financial support, if not employed by the University
• Recent pay statement or letter from department confirming current status at the University for J-1

J-1 or J-2 Visa

If your J-1 or J-2 visa will expire before the date of reentry, you must  apply for a new visa (Canadian and Bermudan Citizens are exempt from the visa requirement).

See the exception below called Automatic Revalidation.

Automatic Revalidation of Nonimmigrant Visa for Travel to Contiguous Territories

Under the circumstances below most J-1 scholars and their J-2 dependents may reenter the U.S. with an expired J-1 or J-2 visa or a visa, expired or unexpired, in another classification:

• be in valid J-1 or J-2 status and reenter to resume the same status;
• have a valid Form I-94 Arrival Record showing J status and D/S (duration of status);
• travel only to Canada, Mexico, or an adjacent island (for F and J nonimmigrants) for 30 days or less;
• do not apply for a U.S. visa while abroad;
• is not a national of a State Sponsor of Terrorism designated country. Review more about State Sponsors of Terrorism and FAQs on this website;
• has never had a visa cancelled for visa overstay;
• is otherwise admissible.