Travel Signatures and I-20/DS-2019 Reprints
Your I-20 or DS-2019 is an important document that proves you are legally enrolled in a program of study in the United States.
You will need it to enter and reenter the country, among other things. An advisor in the Office of Global Learning will electronically sign your I-20 (or hand sign your DS-2019) to verify that you are eligible to travel. This is called a travel signature.
It’s very important to keep your I-20 or DS-2019 up-to-date, safe, and available at all times. We can help with any questions or problems.
Travel Signatures
To obtain a new signature, either come to the office during advising hours with your original I-20 or DS-2019 OR request a reprint of your I-20 or DS-2019 via our I-20/DS-2019 reprint request form. We will send you your form by one of three methods: PDF, "regular" USPS (no delivery time estimate or tracking), or express mail (payment instructions are included in the request link). Express mail is required for international shipments.
You may be able to travel many times on one travel signature. In November 2021, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) published policy guidance that permits the permanent use of electronic signatures for the I-20. Therefore, students on an F-1 visa do not need an original "wet" signature; the digital document is fully acceptable for your travel needs. Note that we still recommend original signatures on DS-2019 forms for students and scholars on a J-1 visa.
A travel signature from the Office of Global Learning is good for six months or a year, depending on your visa status and situation. Here’s how long your travel signature will remain valid …
Visa Status |
Travel Signature is Valid for ... |
Most F-1 Students | One year |
F-1 Canadians | Six months |
F-1 Students on OPT | Six months |
J-1 Students | One year |
F-2 Dependents | One year, if the F-1 student is currently enrolled; six months, if the F-1 student is on OPT |
J-2 Dependents | One year or until the DS-2019 end date, whichever is earlier |
Need a I-20/DS-2019 reprint for travel?
If you’ve lost your form, forgot to bring it with you, or need an updated travel signature while traveling, we can help! We will reprint your I-20 or DS-2019 and send it to you wherever you are in the world! Just complete the I-20/DS-2019 reprint request form.
Next Up: Study or Research Abroad