TRAVEL TO CANADA, MEXICO
AND THE CARIBBEAN
A student or scholar in F-1 or J-1 visa status who wants to visit Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean islands for less than 30 days, and is not a citizen of the country they intend to visit, may be able to do so even with an expired visa, with a few exceptions – read below. This is called “automatic revalidation of the visa” and only pertains to countries that are adjacent to the United States (Cuba not included). However, it is very important that the Form I-94 (white card) not be removed from the passport when leaving the U.S. Be sure to take the following documents:
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A valid passport (valid for at least six months into the future).
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The current or expired passport containing the expired visa.
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A valid/current Form I-94.
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A valid Form I-20 or DS-2019 with a recent signature from the Office of International Student Services.
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Evidence of return transportation arrangements.
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Sufficient funds for length of stay in Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean.
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Evidence of current status in the U.S. (Rollins I.D., copy of current registration, etc.).
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A tourist visa for the country to be visited, if required (see below).
In April 2002, there were changes made to this rule. Automatic Revalidation of Visa is no longer available to citizens of the following countries: Iraq, Iran, Syria, Libya, Sudan, North Korea, and Cuba. In addition, it is also not available for anyone who travels to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, applies for a new visa to return to the U.S. and is denied the visa. If the visa is denied, Automatic Revalidation of the Visa is not allowed and the person would need to depart Canada to their home country to apply at the U.S. Embassy there for a new visa. With these exceptions, we highly recommend that you consult with an advisor in the Office of International Student Services before planning any travel of this nature.
Depending upon your nationality, you may need a tourist or visitor’s visa to enter these countries. Information concerning tourist visas and who is required to obtain them can be obtained by calling the Consulate General of the country you wish to visit (most are located in Miami) or the Embassy (located in Washington, DC). If a tourist visa is required, go in person to the Consulate to file the application, or if necessary, file by mail. Be sure to give yourself sufficient time before your trip to obtain the visa.
Mexico is a popular tourist spot for students and scholars in the southeast area of the U.S., as it is relatively accessible. Citizens of many countries require visitor visas to travel to Mexico. For information on visa requirements, please visit the Mexican Consulate Website.
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