Can I travel during a 60 day grace period?

Navigating the 60-Day Grace Period: Travel and Your F-1 Visa

For international students in the US on F-1 visas, the post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) grace period offers a crucial window of opportunity after graduation. This period, typically lasting 60 days, allows you to transition your status, seek employment, or make other arrangements before departing the country. But what happens if you want to travel during those 60 days? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t straightforward and hinges entirely on your travel plans.

Domestic Travel: A Smooth Transition

Domestic travel within the United States during your 60-day grace period is generally permissible. You can freely travel between states without jeopardizing your status. However, it’s crucial to remember that maintaining a valid I-20 form is paramount. This document serves as your official record of your student status, and you should carry it with you at all times. While domestic travel itself won’t revoke your grace period, losing your I-20 would significantly complicate matters.

International Travel: A Critical Consideration

This is where things get tricky. Leaving the United States during your 60-day grace period immediately terminates that period. Upon your departure, your I-20 is rendered invalid for re-entry based on your completed program of study. This means you cannot simply return to the US under the same F-1 visa and grace period. You’ll need to reapply for a visa and potentially go through the entire immigration process anew.

The “Whichever Comes Sooner” Rule

The key takeaway is the “whichever comes sooner” clause. Your 60-day grace period ends on whichever of these two dates arrives first:

• 60 days after your program’s completion date: This is the standard duration of the grace period.
• The date you depart the United States: This overrides the 60-day period if you leave the country earlier.

Therefore, if you plan international travel during your post-completion OPT grace period, carefully weigh the risks and potential complications. If you need to travel abroad, consider doing so before your grace period begins, or plan your departure after the 60-day period has elapsed.

Planning Ahead is Paramount

Before embarking on any travel during or around your grace period, it is strongly recommended to consult with your Designated School Official (DSO) at your university. They are well-versed in immigration regulations and can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances. Failing to adequately understand the implications of international travel during your grace period can lead to significant delays and complications in your future immigration processes. Thorough planning and proactive communication with your DSO will ensure a smoother transition after your studies.