F-1 and J-1 students/researchers and all dependents who plan to travel outside of the United States and return to Kansas State University must bring their I-20 or DS-2019 to the International Student Center so an International Student Advisor can sign it for re-entry into the U.S. This should be done 2 to 3 weeks prior to traveling. Note that if your DS-2019 was not issued by K-State, you need to contact your program sponsor for this signature. If you are traveling within the U.S., you do not need to have your documents signed for travel but you are required to carry your passport and I-20 or DS-2019 with you at all times.
It is very important that you turn in the Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) to an airline representative or Customs Border Protection (CBP) official when leaving the U.S. Returning the Form I-94 proves that you did not violate U.S. law by staying in the country too long and the you obeyed U.S. immigration laws. This is essential if you want to return to the U.S. at a future date.
If you visit countries outside the United States other than Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean area, you must have a valid F or J visa stamp in your passport to re-enter the United States. This is essential in addition to having a signed form I-20 or DS-2019. If your visa is no longer valid, you must take your passport and a Certificate of Eligibility (I-20 or DS-2019) to the nearest United States Consulate or Embassy in the country you are visiting to apply for a new visa stamp. Evidence of financial support for your studies in the U.S. must also be presented. Also, be advised that you may encounter problems or delays if you attempt to get a new visa outside your home country. Before you leave for a trip outside the U.S., consult the International Student Center to determine whether or not you need a new visa stamp.
Visiting Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean area--automatic revalidation information.
NAFSA: Association of International Educators has published, "10 Points to Remember When Applying for a Nonimmigrant Visa."
The State Department is now publishing on its Web site the average wait times for nonimmigrant visa interviews and for the processing of nonimmigrant visa applications. The wait times are listed by post. To access the wait-time site, go to: http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/tempvisitors_wait.php .
If you are traveling to Canada, Mexico, or adjacent islands other than Cuba for less than 30 days, you may be eligible to reenter the U.S. without obtaining a visa stamp. Please see a Foreign Student Advisor for more information on this revalidation benefit.