Travel Guidance

Important Notice About Travel

As you plan for break, please read this important information about international travel. We want to help you travel safely and return to the U.S. without problems.

Travel involves some risk. U.S. immigration policies can change quickly. You need to decide if you feel comfortable traveling based on your personal situation. The International Education Center is here to help you make the best decision for your situation. If you have questions, please contact the International Education Center at intled@smc.edu.

Before You Travel

Check your documents and carry all immigration documents with you (not in checked luggage). Make sure everything is valid before you leave.

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Valid Passport

• Must be valid for at least 6 months when you return to the U.S.
• Some countries have special agreements that change this rule

Valid U.S. Visa

• Check the expiration date in your passport
• Canadian citizens don't need a visa
• If expired, we advise you not to travel at this time. If you cannot avoid traveling be sure to apply for a new F-1 Visa immediately by filing Form DS-160 to secure earliest visa appointment, if available.

Valid I-20 Travel Signature

• Found on page 2 of your I-20
• Valid for 1 year, good for multiple trips
• Need a new signature? Submit I-20 Signature/Replacement Request form located in your International Student Portal Requests & Documents tab.

Check Your Travel Risk

Yale University has created a helpful risk assessment guide to help you decide about travel. Remember, your personal situation may change your risk level. Contact your International Education Center adviser for personalized advice.

While Traveling

• Stay Informed. Immigration policies can change quickly. Check the International Education Center website regularly for immigration updates. We will post new information and FAQs as needed.
• Secondary Inspection. Some students may be sent to a second officer for additional questions. This is called "secondary inspection." Click Here to find out more about the Secondary Inspection Process. This may take extra time, but it is usually normal and most students complete this process without issues. If officers have questions about your status, ask them to call International Education Center using the number above.
• Electronic Device Searches. CBP officers may search your phone, laptop, and social media accounts. This is legal at U.S. borders. Click here for more information on electronic device searches at U.S. ports of entry. If you're worried about your social media or internet activity, consider talking to an immigration lawyer before traveling. Visit the following sites to learn more about protecting your privacy:

• • Reducing Your Digital Footprint from the Director of National Intelligence
  • Limit Your Digital Footprint from the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency
  • Online Privacy & Security from the Federal Trade Commission
  • Practice Good Digital Hygiene (Immigrant Arc)
  • Can Border Agents Search Your Devices? (ACLU)
  • Border control phone searches (USA Today, March 21, 2025)

• If you have problems entering the U.S., contact the International Education Center:
  • During regular office hours: Ask the CBP officer to call the International Education Center: (310) 434-4218
  • Outside of office hours: Ask the CBP officer to call the SMC Campus Police: (310) 434-4300

After You Return to the U.S.

Check your I-94 record onlineto make sure that your updated record shows your correct visa status (F-1) and the correct duration of stay ("D/S"). If you see an error, contact the International Education Center at intled@smc.eduimmediately.

Questions?

The International Education Center is here to help you navigate international travel and immigration issues. Please contact us with any questions or concerns. Wishing you safe and happy travels!