Travel

• Current, active or returning F-1 and J-1 students and scholars and F-2 and J-2 dependents need current travel signatures/endorsements from ISS prior to travel. Each travel endorsement is valid for one year. 
• A travel signature/endorsement indicates that you are maintaining lawful F-1/F-2 or J-1/J-2 status at the time of signature. This is one of the items that CBP officers will use to establish your eligibility to re-enter the U.S.  Review the rules to maintaining lawful status before you travel. If you have any questions, please see your ISS advisor. 
• Request your travel signature at least 3 business days prior to your planned departure. 
• Request your travel signature by completing the ISS Travel Signature/Reprint form (for F-1) or J-1 Student Visa Holder - Request Form (for J-1)
• For the fastest service, you may submit the form in–person at our ISS Front Desk along with your I-20/DS-2019.  This process will take approximately 3 business days.
• If you cannot come to the office in-person, you may submit your form online by email directly to your ISS advisor and request we re-print your I-20/DS-2019.  This process will take approximately 5 business days.
• You will be notified when your documents are ready for pick up or shipment.
• If your DS-2019 was issued by IIE/Fulbright, you will need to consult with your program sponsor for DS-2019 travel signatures and re-prints.

• The first rule to maintaining lawful immigration status is to ensure that your addresses and contact information are current in Campus Connection.  
• Any changes to your address, telephone number or email address should be reported within 10 days of any change. 
• Your updated information in Campus Connection will be sent to SEVIS by ISS. Always be sure that your information is up to date before you travel. 
• Your addresses and contact information may be verified by CPB at the port of entry. Any discrepancies or outdated information could be considered a violation of your lawful status 
• Please log into Campus Connection to make sure the following contact information is current: 
• Home and mailing address in the Chicago area
• Permanent address in your home country
• Local phone number
• E-mail address
• Emergency contact information

Your passport should be valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of entry to the U.S. Please also note that it is your responsibility to maintain a valid passport throughout your stay in the U.S.  

• Your F-1 or J-1 visa stamp must be valid on the date you enter the U.S. 
• Check the expiration date of your visa
• Check the number of entries allowed on your visa (Multiple, 1, 2 etc.) 
• If you changed your status to F-1 or J-1 while in the U.S. and travel abroad you will need to apply for a new visa before re-entry to the U.S. 

• Receipt for payment of SEVIS I-901 fee. You can find and print your receipt at the DHS website.
• Recently issued financial support documents. 
• DePaul University Student ID card. 
• DePaul Transcript showing your course history. Official transcripts may be requested through DePaul Central Records. 

Please see your ISS Advisor prior to travel if: 

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented enhanced security procedures related to international travel carry-on items. There is no impact on domestic flights in the United States or flights departing the United States. Electronic devices will continue to be allowed on all flights originating from the United States. For a DHS fact sheet, please click HERE. 

International Student and Scholar Services (ISS) is open Monday-Friday, 9:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.