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Travel Guide for Optional Practical Training Students

If you are an F-1 student applying for or currently on Optional Practical Training (OPT), it is important to understand the risks and requirements for traveling outside the U.S. while your OPT is pending or after it has been approved.

Traveling While OPT is Pending

Is Travel Allowed?

Traveling while your OPT application is still pending is not recommended unless necessary. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may question your intent to return to the U.S. if you do not yet have work authorization.

Required Documents for Reentry While OPT is Pending

  1. Valid Passport (must be valid at least six months beyond reentry).
  2. Valid F-1 Visa (if expired, you must renew it before returning).
  3. I-20 with Travel Signature (signed by your DSO within the past 6 months).
  4. I-797 Receipt Notice from USCIS (proof that your OPT application is pending).
  5. Evidence of Employment or Job Offer Letter (optional but recommended to prove intent to work in the U.S.).

Risks of Traveling While OPT is Pending

  • If USCIS requests additional evidence (RFE) while you are abroad, you may not be able to respond in time, delaying or denying your OPT application.
  • If your OPT is approved while you are outside the U.S., you must have your EAD card to reenter, which could delay your return.
  • If your F-1 visa has expired, applying for a renewal while your OPT is pending carries risk, as consular officers may deny it.

Traveling After OPT is Approved

Is Travel Allowed?

Yes, you may travel after your OPT is approved if you have all the required documents. However, be aware of the following risks:

  • You must have a job or proof of employment; otherwise, CBP may deny reentry.
  • If your F-1 visa is expired, applying for a renewal while on OPT can be risky.
  • You cannot exceed 90 days of unemployment while on OPT.

Required Documents for Reentry While on Approved OPT

  1. Valid Passport (must be valid at least six months beyond reentry).
  2. Valid F-1 Visa (if expired, you must renew it before returning).
  3. EAD (OPT Card) (you cannot reenter the U.S. without it).
  4. I-20 with Travel Signature (signed by your DSO within the past 6 months).
  5. Proof of Employment (job offer letter or letter from employer confirming your employment and that you will return to work after traveling).

Additional Considerations

  • If you leave the U.S. after your OPT is approved but before securing employment, reentry can be difficult. CBP may question whether you are truly maintaining F-1 status.
  • SEVP Portal Updates: After you receive your EAD card, you must update your employer information in the SEVP portal within 10 days of any employment changes.
  • If you are applying for a STEM OPT extension and your current OPT has expired, travel is not recommended unless you have the I-797 Receipt Notice and proof of employment.
  • If your STEM OPT is approved while you are outside the U.S., you will need your new EAD card to reenter.

Final Recommendations

  • Always consult your DSO before traveling to ensure you have the correct documents.