Traveling to Canada or Mexico?

2 minute read

Exploring new places during your stay in the United States is exciting, but it essential you follow all guidelines below before planning a trip outside the U.S.

Rule 1- You MUST have a travel validation signature on your DS-2019 form to travel outside the U.S. during your program

If you do not have one, send your DS-2019 form to InterExchange so we may endorse your form for travel. Include a self-addressed envelope so we can mail it back to you immediately. Please send the form 2-3 weeks prior to your trip departure date to our office.

InterExchange 100 Wall St. New York, NY 10005 Attn: Camp USA

Rule 2- You can only travel outside the U.S. under the following conditions

1. Your visa says “M,” meaning multiple entries rather than “S,” single entry. Multiple entry means that you should be allowed to re-enter the country. Single entry means that you have already used up your only entry when you arrived at the beginning of your program. Full details can be found here.

2. You have a travel validation signature on your DS-2019 form. If you do not have this you will NOT be allowed to re-enter the country.

3. Your visa is still valid. If your visa expires when you are outside the country, then you will NOT be allowed to re-enter the country.

4. You have already obtained the required visa, where applicable, of the destination country.

If you are returning to the United States, you must reenter the country before your SEVIS end date. U.S. Customs and Border Patrol will interview all participants for admission & eligibility.

Rule 3- Carry all the required documents

• DS-2019 Form
• Passport with J1 visa
• I-94 Record
• Social Security Card

Please be sure to have copies of your documents in addition to the originals and keep them in a safe place! Before you travel be sure to check with the U.S. Department of State for special travel alerts and advisories

If you have any questions, contact us.

Safe travels!