Travel Signatures

Use our Document iSelfCheck for assistance with finding your travel signature on your I-20 or DS-2019.

f your travel signature is still valid, you do not need a new I-20/DS-2019 travel signature every time you travel internationally if your current signature is still valid. You do not need a valid travel signature to leave the U.S., but you do need one to enter the U.S.

• Enrolled F-1 Students: If your travel signature will be more than 1 year old at the time of re-entry to the U.S., then you need to request a new signature.
• F-1 OPT Students: If your travel signature will be more than 6 months old at the time of re-entry to the U.S., then you need to request a new signature.
• J-1 Students: If your travel signature will be more than 1 year old at the time of re-entry to the U.S., then you need to request a new signature.

You are eligible to renew your travel signature:

• If you are enrolled in full-time units at UC San Diego during the Fall, Winter and Spring quarters, OR
• If you are enrolled below 12 academic units, but have an approved Reduced Course Load (RCL) OR
• If you have applied for or have an approved post-completion F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) or J-1 Academic Training (AT) employment authorization.

• If your SEVIS record at UC San Diego has been terminated due to visa status violations, OR
• If your SEVIS record at UC San Diego has completed due to your program completion, OR
• If your SEVIS record at UC San Diego has been released/transferred out to another school.

Submit a "Travel Signature I-20/DS-2019 Request" in iPortal.

• A new I-20/DS-2019 with a new travel signature will be ready in 5 business days. 
• You will be notified via email when the request is complete.
• Print and sign the I-20/DS-2019, and keep a copy for your own records. 

Visit our main travel page for more information on how to get ready for international travel.