Immigration News

Travel Tips and Frequently Asked Questions

January 11, 2025

Last month, ISSO hosted two “Q&A on Immigration Policy” webinars with immigration attorney Dan Berger. Mr. Berger’s guidance is summarized in the below travel tips and FAQs. ISSO extends sincere thanks to Mr. Berger for his recommendations, and additional advice can be found in his Tips for Advising in a Time of Immigration Uncertainty.   

Travel Tips

  • Always carry copies of your travel documents. Carry digital or printed copies of your documents at all times, including when travelling domestically. 
  • Make flexible travel plans. Consider purchasing travel insurance or flexible fares when booking travel so that you can change your itinerary if needed. 
  • Plan in advance. To prepare for any processing delays, submit visa applications as early as possible and plan well in advance for any visa changes. Applications for optional practical training (OPT) can be filed up to 90 days before the end date of your academic program.  
  • Be mindful with domestic trips. Use caution when travelling domestically to locations that are close to the Mexican or Canadian borders since there could be immigration checks. Also to U.S. overseas territories.
  • Rely only on official information. Make decisions based only on credible sources such as the U.S. State Department or ISSO websites. Avoid relying on speculative guidance found on social media.
  • Seek guidance. Reach out to an ISSO adviser if you have questions or concerns. 

Frequently Asked Questions

We cannot know what travel restrictions would look like if enacted, nor do we know to what extent visa processing times could slow. We recommend filing any applications (including visa applications) as early as possible and planning well in advance before any deadlines. Applications for optional practical training (OPT) can be filed up to 90 days before the end date of your academic program.  

All travelers must carry their documents and ensure that they are up to date. Guidance on required documentation needed to travel and re-enter the U.S. is available on the ISSO website for both students and scholars.

U.S. law requires anyone who is not a U.S. citizen to carry evidence of status at all times. Even when travelling domestically, carry a digital or printed copy of your travel documents.  

The team of advisers at ISSO remain at your disposal to answer any questions that you may have about your situation. ISSO staff will be closely monitoring immigration policy and guidance in the coming months, and will promptly share relevant announcements and updates as they become available. Please continue to use the ISSO website, and don’t hesitate to reach out at [email protected] with any questions or concerns. Make decisions based only on credible sources such as the U.S. State Department or ISSO websites.