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All visa rules
Usually yes

Can I travel internationally during OPT and re-enter the US?

Yes, if your OPT is already approved you can generally travel abroad and re-enter in F-1 status. To re-enter you should carry your unexpired EAD card, a Form I-20 endorsed for travel by your DSO within the last 6 months, a valid passport, a valid F-1 visa, and ideally a letter from your employer. Note that if you leave the country after OPT is approved but before you have a job, your OPT can be treated as ended and you may not be able to re-enter, so traveling is safest once you have employment.

Watch out

The CBP officer at the port of entry makes the final admission decision; have your EAD, travel-endorsed I-20, and a job/offer letter in hand.

Source: ICE SEVP, Travel (ice.gov/sevis/travel)

Informational, not legal advice. Immigration rules change and individual cases differ. Confirm anything that affects your status with your school’s DSO or an immigration attorney before acting.

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