Visa

Does Having a Visa Mean You Can Re-enter the U.S. Freely for 5 Years?

Not at all! Remember your I-20 / DS-2019? These documents must be renewed annually via an application to Cornell International Services! Renewal process: Visit the Cornell myStatus webpage and select the I-20 / DS-2019 Reprint Request, fill out the application, and then collect your new form according to your chosen delivery method!

Full Explanation

Thinking about traveling outside the U.S. this summer? If you plan to return next fall to continue your academic program, you need to carry specific documents for reentry. Please review the important information on the Travel Documents for Students page before making your travel plans. Travel signatures on I-20 forms can now be digital. This means you are no longer required to have a “wet” signature from the designated school official (DSO) on your I-20. However, your personal signature on the I-20 must still be an original ink signature. When International Services provides you with an electronic, digitally signed I-20 for travel, you must print it out and sign it before reentering the U.S.

Traveling internationally? You will need a valid travel signature on your DS-2019 to reenter the U.S. As of April 28, 2023, we can sign and send your DS-2019 electronically! You may request a PDF copy of your DS-2019 with a new travel signature via myStatus.

Can F-1 Students Become YouTubers?

In principle, F-1 students are allowed to work on-campus only, and for no more than 20 hours per week. Activities such as being a YouTuber, reselling products, operating online auctions, or even part-time gig work like driving for Uber are not permitted. For example, if your earnings exceed certain thresholds, YouTube may issue you a tax form (and report it to the IRS).

How Many Hours Per Week Can F-1 Students Work On-Campus?

By regulation, F-1 students may work up to 20 hours per week on-campus. During school breaks when there are no classes, you may work up to 40 hours per week. On-campus dining centers typically record work hours via time clocks, whereas research assistant positions require self-reporting through the school system. Make sure to monitor your hours to avoid exceeding the limit.

How Long Can You Stay in the U.S. After Graduation? Can You Exit During the Grace Period if You Don’t Have OPT?

After your F-1 program ends, you are granted a 60-day Grace Period. However, you are not allowed to exit and reenter the U.S. during this period. Staying beyond 60 days without changing your status constitutes unlawful presence and may negatively affect future visa applications.

Passport

What If I Lose My Passport?

This depends on how much time you have. If time permits, you should apply for a new passport.

However, if you lose your passport while en route to the airport before your flight, do not apply for a new passport (obtaining a new passport overseas can take 5-7 days). This might force you to stay longer and even change your flight, wasting both time and money.

If your passport is lost, first file a lost property report at the local police station, then visit the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York (contact details provided below):

  • First, call to make an appointment
  • Remember to not apply for a new passport immediately.
  • Instead, apply for a temporary “Entry Permit” (bring the police report, a passport photo, and proof of identity).

After returning to Taiwan:

  • Exchange your temporary entry document for a permanent one.
  • Pay the required fees.
  • Present the document for inspection upon reentry.
  • Finally, apply for a new passport!

What Are the Contact Details for the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (ROC Embassies and Missions Abroad) in New York?

Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (ROC Embassies and Missions Abroad) in New York

For passport, visa, and document verification services, please visit the Consular Services department on the 4th floor.

Map of the Diplomatic Facility

What If I Lose My I-20/DS-2019?

Please apply for a replacement by visiting the school’s website. The school will mail you a new form (no matter where you are in the world)! If the new form will not arrive in time, do not panic. When you reach immigration, explain to the officer that you forgot your I-20 or DS-2019 and request to enter using Form I-515A.

What Should I Do in Case of an Emergency?

  1. Call International SOS

    • Cornell University partners with International SOS, a leading global provider of medical and travel security services. If you are an international student, scholar, or employee and are arrested or detained by federal officers, or experience a serious incident or injury, call International SOS immediately at +1 215-942-8478 and provide Cornell’s membership number: 11BSCA827281.
    • International SOS will alert Cornell University immediately.

  2. If you are returning to the U.S. and require a travel signature or a new I-20/DS-2019, do not panic! Upon arrival at the U.S. border, explain your situation to the officer and request entry with Form I-515A. This form will allow you to enter on F-1 or J-1 status for 30 days. If you obtain an I-515A, please visit the International Services Office for further assistance.

  3. For other immigration document issues, please contact the school rather than International SOS.

  • Consult an immigration lawyer: If you encounter immigration issues and feel legal advice might be necessary, first contact the school. Cornell will offer options and resources and help you determine if you need to consult an immigration attorney.
  1. Immediately seek care at the nearest clinic or hospital.
  2. Call International SOS (ISOS) — Cornell’s medical insurance/assistance provider. The 24/7 emergency hotline is +1-215-942-8478 (or use the mobile app).
    • Provide ISOS with your name, policy number (11BSCA827281), and any other requested information.
    • ISOS will closely monitor your case to ensure appropriate medical care, including verifying local resource availability.
    • Typically, ISOS can arrange for direct billing to the medical facility. If they cannot pay directly under insured circumstances, you will be reimbursed for treatment costs (with all receipts provided).
  3. Overseas students should notify their program coordinator/director as soon as possible.
  4. If your program lacks on-site staff or if you are traveling independently, once your situation stabilizes, please contact IHSS (email: intlsafety@cornell.edu) to report the emergency.

OPT

Why Are Students Rushing to Apply for OPT Before Graduation?

OPT stands for Optional Practical Training, which provides a legal employment period for students to work for one year after completing their academic program, while still on an F-1 student visa. Once you apply for OPT, you receive an Employment Authorization Document (commonly known as the EAD card), which permits you to work legally in the U.S.

Are There Job Restrictions Under OPT?

Your OPT employment must be directly related to your major field of study, and you must work at least 20 hours per week.

When Should I Start Applying for OPT? Can I Apply Without Having a Job Offer?

You can apply as early as 90 days before graduation, and there is no need to have a job offer at the time of application.

If I’m Late in Preparing My OPT Application and a Company Wants Me to Start ASAP, Can I Expedite OPT?

Yes. USCIS offers a premium processing option for OPT applications. You can file Form I-907 and pay the expedited fee, and USCIS will respond within 30 days.

Can I Change the Activation Date on My OPT After Filing?

No, the activation date for OPT—selected from a date within 60 days of graduation—cannot be changed once the application is submitted.

Is There a Minimum Wage Requirement for OPT Jobs?

No, there is no minimum wage requirement. You may even accept unpaid internships.

Can I Hold Two Jobs Simultaneously on OPT?

Yes, you can work for multiple employers on OPT. However, you must report your employment to the SEVP system via the Student Exchange Visitor Program portal.

If I Move During OPT, Who Should I Notify?

You must update your address and other details in the Student Exchange Visitor Program portal.

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Last updated 31 Mar 2025, 14:16 -0400 . history