International Student and Scholar Services

We are providing these travel reminders as we move quickly into the winter break season. We have started receiving questions about the change in presidential administrations, as we do with any new administration. Of course, immigration guidance could change, and we will keep you up to date as we learn more. 

As a reminder, Ohio University’s Spring Semester begins January 13, 2025. Students are expected by the U.S. government to return prior to that date to fulfill in-person course requirements. If you are unable to return prior to the start of classes, we recommend that you return to the U.S. prior to January 20, 2025, as we are uncertain of potential changes to U.S. immigration policies.

Carry Essential Documents: Upon entering the United States (U.S.), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) may ask for evidence of your reason for returning to the U.S. 
To be prepared, make sure you carry all your documents:

• Valid passport (validity 6 months into the future, especially when requesting entry into the U.S.)
• Valid visa stamp (Canadians exempted)
• I-20 or DS-2019 with valid travel signature 
  • Validity for student and scholars is 12 months from the date of signature from ISSS 
  • Exception: validity for F-1 students on OPT is 6 months from the date of signature from ISSS
• Students: Proof of enrollment (https://www.ohio.edu/registrar/enrollment-degree-verification)
• Students: Proof of funding for one academic year 
• Scholars: Letter from host department confirming continued employment/fellowship

At the border of the United States, USCBP makes the final determination to admit any individual into the country.

Need to apply for a new visa stamp? Before leaving the U.S., make sure you have a confirmed visa appointment. 

Note: This information does not include immigration advice for any individual. If you have specific questions, please contact ISSS using the below information. 

We appreciate your patience as we will answer questions as they arrive. 

International Student and Scholar Services    
Email: isss@ohio.edu                    
Phone: 740-593-4330   

For Ohio University international faculty and staff, please contact the Office of Legal Affairs at patterson@ohio.edu or (740) 597-1774. You may also visit the Office of Legal Affairs website regarding essential travel information for H-1B and H-4 dependent visa holders.