Traveling Outside of the United States

• Overview

  Overview

  When reentering the U.S. after traveling outside of the country, you must be prepared to show the Border Patrol the following documents:

  • Valid Form DS-2019 with valid travel signature on lower right portion under "travel validation". The travel signature is valid for 12 months or until the DS-2019 end date, whichever is earlier.  
  • Passport (Valid 6-month into the future)
  • Valid J-1 visa. If your J-1 visa has expired, you will need to renew it before reentering the United States. 

  • Proof of Enrollment:
    • Undergrads: Enrollment Verification from the Registrar
    • Graduates: Good Standing Letter from your department

  In order to reenter the US after traveling outside of the country you must have a travel signature on your DS-2019. This signature confirms that you are a full-time student maintaining lawful status. To obtain a travel signature please submit the Travel Signature Request form in accessVIS.

• Traveling within the U.S.

  Traveling Within the U.S.

  If you are planning a trip within the United States it is important that you have your DS-2019, passport, visa and Stony Brook ID card with you for ALL distance travel, even travel within New York State.

• Important Reminders

  Travel Reminders for J-1 Exchange Visitors

  • • J-1 students with expired U.S. visas who are traveling to Canada, Mexico or adjacent islands for up to 30 days, who will not be applying for a new U.S. visa while there, AND who will be resuming their studies upon their return should discuss their eligiblity for Automatic Revalidation with an International Student Advisor before traveling.
    • Canadian nationals should be sure to carry with them their financial documentation that verifies the information on their SEVIS Form DS-2019 when returning to the United States
    • If you are applying for a change of non-immigrant status, or have an immigration petition or EAD card application pending, be sure to carry your U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) receipt notice (Form I-797). This notice proves that you have an application pending with USCIS.
• Frequently Asked Questions

  Frequently Asked Questions

  May I travel to Canada?

  All countries have their own travel restrictions and requirements which differ depending on the individual's nationality. Be sure to check the country's official website for information on what documents you'll need to visit.

  For instance, those traveling to Canada must:

  • Have a Temporary Resident (visitor) Visa depending on your citizenship ( Check Eligibility or Apply Here)
  • Have a valid travel document, such as a passport
  • Be in good health

  I would like to take a cruise - are there any documents I should prepare before I travel?

  We advise students to prepare for taking a cruise in the same way that they would for international travel. Continuing students should carry:

  • Original DS-2019 signed for travel within the last 12 months
  • Passport (valid 6 months into the future)
  • Valid J-1 Visa
  • Undergrads: Enrollment Verification from the Registrar
  • Graduates: Good Standing Letter from your Department

  Although the cruise may not have a planned stop at an international port, it may travel through international waters or may need to make an unscheduled stop for mechanical reasons. Good preparation will ensure you are able to board the ship and return to Stony Brook smoothly.