What is a travel signature and why do I need one?
FAQ.
Answered by Jennifer Glass, Immigration Coordinator at the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
What is a travel signature and why do I need one?
A travel signature is your DSO's (F-1) or ARO's (J-1) endorsement on your I-20 or DS-2019 confirming you're maintaining status. You need a current endorsement on your date of reentry to the U.S. after international travel - not older than a year for enrolled students or 6 months for those on OPT or STEM OPT.
Key things to know
Required for all international travel if you plan to return in F-1/J-1 status.
Valid ~12 months (6 months on OPT), or until your program end date, whichever comes first.
Only DSOs (F-1) and AROs (J-1) can issue travel signatures. If you don’t know who these are on your campus, start with the International Office
Request one well in advance — schools have a process and it can take a few days or longer at peak times.
Travel signatures are often sent via email, so if you forgot to request a travel signature before you left campus, don’t be alarmed! You can still request one and print the document out from home once emailed to you.
If you forget your I-20 or DS-2019 entirely, CBP may still admit you by issuing a Form I-515A (30-day temporary admission). If this happens, contact your DSO/ARO immediately.
Reference: DHS Study in the States I-515A Fact Sheet
