On October 24, 2025 the ISSO emailed all active UCSF-sponsored visa holders the following reminders:
International Travel
The ISSO still advises caution with international travel. Our travel webpages have been updated to provide detailed guidance:
Highlighted Travel Guidance
- Review updated visa application guidance from U.S. Department of State (apply for your renewal visa in your country of citizenship)
- Review updated USCIS Guidance regarding Proclamation and impact on H-1B international travel
- After returning to the U.S., check your I-94 form within 48 hours to make sure there are no errors. Contact your ISSO adviser if there are errors.
- Your electronic devices and social media may be checked at the U.S. border or when renewing your visa. Review ACLU's article for preparation tips.
- Some U.S. consulates may ask for your birth certificate when applying for a visa. Check with the consulate you will renew your visa at for confirmation.
- If you need to renew your visa, secure your visa interview appointment in advance of travel
Proof of Legal Status Within the United States
Carry original legal documents at all times. These documents include:
- Valid passport
- I-94 printout
- Valid document certifying legal status (DS-2019 for J-1s, I-797 Approval Notification for H-1Bs and I-20 for F-1s).
The aforementioned documents are necessary for travel within the U.S. as well. This is an existing rule, not a new policy.
Passport Validity Requirement
Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond current program or employment end date unless your country is exempt from this rule. This is an existing rule, not a new policy.
If your passport has expired, will expire soon or you would like to renew, contact your consulate in the U.S. immediately to:
- Understand steps to apply for a passport renewal. If needed, apply to expedite your passport renewal application to avoid status issues.
- Inquire how long it will take to receive your new passport and keep your submission receipt if you apply for a renewal.
Please contact your ISSO adviser with a copy of your new passport after completing your passport application renewal process.
Update Your Address
Update your U.S. residential address with the ISSO within 10 days of moving.
Not sure if you need to update? Submit our Update Address Form and we will check for you! All changes submitted to our Update Address Form will be automatically updated in ISSO’s database and SEVIS for F and J visa holders. No need to follow-up with advisers for confirmation; rest assured that it’s taken care of if you’ve submitted the form.
In addition, H-1B, TN, O-1, E-3 scholars must complete form AR-11 to update your address within 10 days with USCIS. Find USCIS instructions online.
Know Your Rights Resources
If you have any questions, about any of the topics above, please be sure to reach out to your ISSO advisor.