International Scholars

Travel

Prior to travel outside the U.S., J-1 scholars and their J-2 dependents must schedule a Travel Appointment for a travel signature on their DS-2019 for re-entry to the U.S. In addition, see the following list for additional requirements for re-entry, travel and post arrival responsibilities.

For re-entry

For travel

For post-arrival

Automatic revalidation

*Re-entry on any expired U.S. visa stamp that has not been cancelled (or marked "CWOP"—cancelled without prejudice) is allowed under Automatic Revalidation only for trips to Canada, Mexico or adjacent islands other than Cuba lasting 30 days or less. This is not applicable to citizens/ nationals of Iran, Syria, Sudan, or Cuba. If you received a paper I-94 card then keep it when leaving the U.S. and show it upon re-entry.

If you choose to apply for a U.S. visa in Canada and are denied a new visa, you will not be readmitted to the U.S. under Automatic Revalidation. You will need to travel directly to your home country to obtain a new visa in order to reenter the U.S.

221(g) administrative processing

Some individuals may be subject to further administrative processing under the 221(g) section of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act. Please note that this can cause significant delays in your travel plans.

Consulates indicate that this processing takes a minimum of two weeks, and may require substantially longer. We are unable to provide a more specific completion date.

Below find some recommendations that will help you prepare for this process.

Be prepared to have the following documents with you for the interview:

Prepare a written statement addressing the following information:

Immigration and Customs Enforcement

Additional information about traveling, including insight into what to expect at the Port of Entry, can be found on these Immigration and Customs Enforcement websites: