University of Massachusetts Amherst

Travel and Visas

Travel Outside of the U.S.

Before you leave the U.S. make sure that the F-1/J-1 visa stamp in your passport is valid and that you have an up-to-date travel signature on your I-20/DS-2019.

For information about applying for Visitor's visa to country other than US/home country, visit the Foreign Embassies sites.

For travel advisories, check the Department of State site.

Travel to Canada, Mexico or adjacent islands

Automatic Visa Revalidation permits F-1, F-2, J-1 and J-2 students/dependents (unless you are from Iraq, Iran, Syria, Libya, Sudan, North Korea, and Cuba) to return to the U.S. following brief trips of 30 days or less to Canada, Mexico, or adjacent island (except Cuba) when the F or J visa had expired or after an approved change of status. Please note that Automatic Revalidation will not be available for anyone who applies for a visa while outside the US.

You may need a tourist visa to enter Canada, depending on your home country. Here is the procedure to apply for a Canadian Tourist Visa. You may find it most convenient to obtain the Canadian Tourist Visa before you come to the U.S. See the listing for the office in your country.

Renew US Visa Advisory

You need to get a new visa only if/when you leave the U.S. and plan to re-enter the country to resume your studies. We do not recommend that you travel unless you are prepared to wait at least several weeks while the U.S. Consulate in your home country processes your visa application. For up-to-date information, interview schedule, forms and procedures to apply for a visa, visit the home country Consulate or Embassy site.

Generally, the following documents are required for visa application:

  • Valid passport
  • Form I-20/DS-2019, valid and endorsed for re-entry by Foreign Student Advisor
  • Form DS-156, DS-158, and DS-157 (this form is for male applicants aged 16-45)
  • Recent financial documentation in amount shown on your I-20/DS-2019 form
  • Evidence of ties to the home country
  • Transcripts and evidence of enrollment

Visa Appointment Booking for US Consulates in Canada

Please read the details regarding the Automatic Visa Revalidation before you make the appointment. Appointment booking is available on line here