Dec 12th OISS Newsletter

Expect to do some traveling outside the USA soon?

From our online Blackboard survey, we noticed that many students had questions about what they need to do to travel outside the United States. I know many of you are planning to travel outside the USA during the holidays, so in order to ensure that you do not have any trouble re-entering the US, we are recommending that you follow the steps below:

Have your I-20 signed by an immigration advisor. Although you may have a signature that states it is valid up to one year, if it is older than four months, we suggest you have your I-20 signed again.
Complete the verification form online so that we can draft a letter confirming that you are a current student studying at St. Thomas. This letter will be on our official letterhead and will be stamped with our office seal. We find it helps confirm your attendance and good standing.
Enroll for the next semester. This will give immigration officials verification that you are continuing your studies and are in good standing.
Request a transcript from the registrar's office. Although, we draft a letter supporting your attendance, we feel some immigration officials may request to see formal university documentation that you are taking classes and that you are enrolled for the following semester.
Bring with you current financial statements or scholarship letters matching the funding listed on your I-20. This is not always checked, but we heard of some instances where immigration officials have requested these documents, so it is good to have them with you.
If you have been indicated that you are a student who must adhere to Special Registration requirements, you should volunteer yourself at the airport for your exit interview. You must make sure you have your exit interview with immigration officials at the final airport you will be using to depart the USA. Check with the information you were given when you had your special registration interview to make sure that your departing airport is on the approved list.
If you are a student who recently applied for OPT and have yet to receive your OPT (EAD) card, you should contact our office for more information.
Keep all your documents in a safe place. Never put them in your checked luggage. Make sure you know the OISS contact information to help if you have questions or emergencies during your trip. Feel free to pick up a business card for any OISS staff member.
Enjoy your trip!