Entry to the U.S.: Travel and Re-Entry

Travel Advisory: UPDATE 8/1/25 - International travel may be high risk for all clients due to strict vetting and enforcement. BIO urges caution when considering international travel for personal or professional reasons, as U.S. immigration policy remains unpredictable and subject to rapid change. See the Guidance from UCOP regarding travel risks in the current immigration enforcement climate. For updates, see the BIO Immigration Policy Changes FAQ, Immigration Policy Updates, and Know Your Rights pages.

Required Documents

** BIO RECOMMENDS ENTERING THE U.S. VIA THE SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SFO) PORT OF ENTRY WHENEVER POSSIBLE. **

Documentation needed for travel may vary depending on the relationship you hold with UC Berkeley. Please refer to the below definitions to ensure you understand which term applies to you.

F-1/J-1 students: F-1 and J-1 students enrolled in a UC Berkeley degree-seeking or UCEAP program, or on post-completion OPT, STEM OPT, or Academic Training

J-1 scholars: J-1 scholars hold formal affiliations at UC Berkeley to conduct research or teach; J-1 scholars are NOT enrolled in UC Berkeley degree-seeking or UCEAP programs.

When traveling, carry documents with you in carry-on luggage, NOT in your checked baggage! You need access to your visa documents at all times during transit. 

How Can I Prepare for Re-Entry and Understand My Rights at the Border?

** BIO RECOMMENDS ENTERING THE U.S. VIA THE SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SFO) PORT OF ENTRY WHENEVER POSSIBLE. **

Given the current U.S. immigration climate, you should be prepared for the possibility of increased scrutiny at the U.S. port of entry in the form of additional questioning and/or inspection of your phone or social media. Be aware: Officers may ask you questions about your reason for entering the U.S., your activities in the U.S., or your academic program. 

  • If you are questioned, remain calm and answer honestly and succinctly. What NOT to say: Jokes about terrorism, explosives, breaking U.S. laws, drugs, alcohol, etc. are never a good idea. 

  • Preparing Your Electronic Devices: CBP may also ask questions about your electronic devices or inspect them. This may include your social media accounts. For tips on how to prepare your devices, read this ACLU article(link is external).

  • Social Media & App Review: Are you presenting your best self in social media and messaging apps? Take time to review your accounts for any content that may appear to show you engaged in activities that violate U.S. laws, your visa status, or academic integrity.

  • Know Your Rights: See the ACLU's resources(link is external) for information on your rights at airports/borders(link is external) and in encounters with law enforcement(link is external).

If there are any problems during entry, please notify Berkeley International Office as soon as you arrive.

Travel Signatures

F-1/ J-1 Students

See our Student Services page for how to obtain an updated travel signature for your F-1/J-1 Student I-20 or DS-2019.

J-1 Scholars 

-To schedule an appointment to come to BIO for a travel signature, please email jscholar@berkeley.edu(link sends e-mail) and a link to schedule an appointment will be provided.

-Alternatively, you can email a Travel Signature Request Form with copies of your most recent DS-2019 and J-1 visa to jscholar@berkeley.edu(link sends e-mail) to request an updated DS-2019 with a new travel signature.

-You can also Register for the next Connect at the Berkeley International Office(link is external) meeting to meet other J-1 scholars, receive important information, and get a travel signature on your DS-2019.

Travel Outside and Within the U.S.

Travel to Other Countries

Other countries may require a visa and/or immunizations to enter their country. Before your departure, contact the nearest consulate or embassy of the country(ies) you plan to visit for updated information.

Travel Inside the United States

We strongly recommend that you carry a valid passport, I-94 copy or passport admission stamp, your I-20 or DS-2019, and proof of current registration or program when traveling inside the United States. J-1 scholars should bring a copy of their departmental appointment letter.

Student and Scholar Entry Timeline

We recommend that you arrive at least one week before your program begins or resumes. Plan ahead! Refundable tickets are a good option should delays arise.

Arriving during BIO office hours is recommended. In case of entry issues, you can request Customs and Border Protection to contact BIO.  

New Students or Scholars
F-1 and J-1 status applicants entering the United States for a new program can only enter up to 30 days before the start date of their I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) document- NO EARLIER.

New F-1 students who are transferring their F-1 status from another U.S. institution to UC Berkeley are not subject to the 30-day arrival limit. Be sure you have your signed UC Berkeley I-20 for entry!

New J-1 students/scholars who are transferring their J-1 status from another U.S. institution should consult with a BIO adviser regarding their transfer and travel plans.

Continuing Students and Scholars
Students or visiting scholars/researchers/faculty who are either continuing an on-going program at UC Berkeley are not subject to the 30-day arrival limit. Be sure you have your signed UC Berkeley I-20/DS-2019 for entry!

Special Cases

Special Concerns

In the following cases, consult with a Berkeley International Office adviser at least two weeks before departure:

  • F/J enrolled or post-completion OPT, STEM OPT, or AT students - You will be out of the United States for more than five months
  • J-1 scholars - You will be out of the United States for more than one month
  • You are considering traveling to Mexico or Canada to renew or change your U.S. entry visa.
  • Your I-20/DS-2019 has expired or will expire within 30 days of your expected return to the United States
  • You are currently applying or have applied in the past for U.S. legal permanent resident status (green card).

Returning to the United States Using "Automatic Revalidation"

"Automatic Revalidation" allows F, J, H, or O status holders under certain circumstances to re-enter the United States with an expired U.S. visa stamp in their valid passport after visiting Canada, Mexico, or adjacent islands for less than 30 days. Please speak with an adviser at Berkeley International Office and review our information regarding Automatic Visa Revalidation before making your travel plans.

H-1B

Individuals with UC Berkeley-Sponsored H-1B

Please see H-1B Travel Documents.