/Office of Global Affairs
Visa and Immigration Services

Holiday Travel Guidance for International Students

November 6, 2026

Dear Students, 

If you're planning to travel internationally during Thanksgiving or Winter Break, we encourage you to plan ahead and carefully review your immigration documents before departing the United States.

As immigration policies and travel requirements continue to evolve, we encourage all students to review the latest guidance and plan ahead to help ensure a smooth return to the United States.

If you need to apply for a new visa, have a pending immigration application, or have had any interaction with law enforcement, we strongly encourage you to seek guidance before making travel arrangements.

Before You Travel

Check your passport validity. Your passport should generally be valid for at least six months beyond your intended return to the U.S., although exceptions apply to certain countries.

Confirm your visa is valid for reentry. Your visa must reflect your current nonimmigrant status, be unexpired, and have a remaining entry available, if applicable.

If you're planning a short trip (30 days or less) to Canada or Mexico, you may qualify for reentry with an expired visa through Automatic Visa Revalidation. Eligibility restrictions apply. Learn more about Automatic Visa Revalidation.

Plan ahead if you need a new visa. If your visa has expired and you must apply for a new one abroad, be aware that there is no guarantee it will be issued in time for your planned return. Students should carefully consider this risk before departing the United States.

  • Review U.S. Embassy and Consulate visa appointment wait times.
  • Visa applicants are generally expected to apply in their country of nationality or residence, as third-country visa applications are subject to additional restrictions.
  • Do not assume your visa will be issued within the published processing time. Delays could affect your ability to return for the start of classes.

Check for travel restrictions and visa updates. Immigration policies and entry restrictions may change. Review current guidance before departure and again before returning to the U.S.

Students should also monitor the email address used for their DS-160 visa application for any notifications from the Department of State, including possible visa revocations.

Confirm your travel signature is valid. Travel signatures are generally valid for one year for continuing F-1 and J-1 students, and six months for students on approved OPT or STEM OPT.

If your travel signature will expire before you return to the United States, submit a Travel Signature Request through accessVIS at least 5–7 business days before departure.

Confirm your immigration status and travel documents. Make sure your SEVIS record remains active and that you have a valid Form I-20 or DS-2019. Students on OPT/STEM OPT, those with pending USCIS applications, and students with unusual immigration circumstances should consult their International Student Advisor before traveling.

Returning to the United States

When you arrive at a U.S. port of entry, a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will review your immigration documents and determine your eligibility for admission.

Be prepared to:

  • Present your valid passport, visa (if required), Form I-20 or DS-2019, and Employment Authorization Document (EAD), if applicable.
  • Answer questions about your studies, immigration status, and travel plans.
  • Undergo additional screening, which may include questions about your travel history, review of electronic devices, or secondary inspection.
  • Allow additional time for processing and remain patient and cooperative throughout the inspection process.

After reentry, review your Form I-94. Visit the CBP I-94 website to confirm that your admission information is accurate, including your immigration classification (F-1 or J-1) and duration of status (D/S), when applicable. If you notice an error, contact VIS for guidance.

If you experience difficulties entering the United States, contact vis@stonybrook.edu or your International Student Advisor.

Stay Informed

Immigration policies and travel requirements can change with little notice. We encourage you to stay informed throughout your travels.

VIS Office Operations During Winter Break

Visa and Immigration Services will operate remotely from December 23, 2026, through January 15, 2027. During this period, our office hours will be 9 AM–4 PM.

If you have questions or concerns about your travel plans, please contact your International Student Advisor before departing.

We wish you a safe and enjoyable holiday season!

Warm regards,
Visa and Immigration Services
Stony Brook University