Greetings from ISP,
We are now in the heart of Summer Session, and the weather is beautiful here in Sonoma County! If you will travel to the United States in July/August, we have some important reminders for you. Whether you’re returning to the U.S., or it’s your first entry, please note the following:
- CDC COVID-19 Requirements: Before traveling, check the Center for Disease Control (CDC) requirements for international travelers, including vaccinations or negative COVID-19 test results. After traveling, be sure to follow CDC recommendations for additional testing and possible quarantine. SRJC is following all state and local health guidelines and has additional information available on the SRJC Plan for a Safe Return to Campus.
- CDC Travel Ban/NIE: While certain travelers are currently prohibited from entry to the U.S., F-1 visa holders traveling from China, Iran, India, Brazil, South Africa, the Schengen area, the United Kingdom, and Ireland may qualify for an automatic National Interest Exception (NIE) if their programs will begin on or after August 1, 2021. You may enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before the start of your academic studies.
- Required Documents: To request entry to the U.S, you will need a valid passport, an unexpired F-1 visa stamp, and a printed Form I-20 (signed by you or your parent/legal guardian under Student Attestation). We recommend you also print the attached letter and a copy of your Fall 2021 class schedule, in case you need either. After you arrive in the U.S., go online and retrieve your I-94 record, and confirm that you were classified as F-1 marked D/S upon arrival. The notation on your admission stamp (inside your passport facing your F-1 visa) should match your I-94 record indicating F-1 and D/S.
- Travel Authorization: Continuing students who are returning to the U.S. from a vacation abroad must have a valid travel authorization signature on Page 2 of their Form I-20. You can use the online Travel Authorization Request Form to request one. If you already have a travel signature, please note that they are valid for 12 months and allow for multiple entries to the U.S.
Please click on each of the links above and read the information on these websites carefully. If you have any questions, please contact us for assistance.
Best wishes and safe travels!
SRJC International Student Program