F-1 visa is a US student visa. Many are wondering whether there is any possibility or restriction of traveling abroad on it. Colombia is one of the most popular destinations for travelers from the US. In this article, we are going to explore whether international students in the US can travel to Colombia on F-1 visa and how to prepare for it.
What Is an F-1 Visa?
An F1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for international students seeking academic or language training in the United States. It’s an important document for those aiming to pursue education in the US. With an F1 visa, students can enroll in a full-time academic program at a recognized educational institution, such as campus study, academic activities, optional practical training (OPT) related to the field of study after graduation, and so on. Moreover, visa holders can leave and re-enter the US unlimited times. However, visa holders are generally not allowed to work off-campus without special permission.
Can I Travel to Colombia on F-1 Visa?
Yes, and a corresponding Colombia visa is required according to what you are traveling for. F-1 visa holders can travel visa-free to some countries and territories, but Colombia is not included. Therefore, if you want to travel to Colombia as an international student on F-1 visa, you are supposed to check whether your home country is on the visa-exempted or visa-required list from Colombia. In both cases, you have to meet the specific entry requirements of Colombia. Moreover, to maintain your F1 status while traveling outside the US, please contact your designated school official (DSO) or international student advisor and ask for professional guidance on your international trip.
What to Prepare Before Traveling to Colombia on F-1 Visa
To return to the US and continue your studies after traveling, it is necessary to learn about the procedures and requirements to maintain your F1 status, which are listed below.
Check Your F1 Visa and Passport Status
Your F-1 visa must be valid. You should renew an expiring or expired visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate unless you are eligible for automatic visa revalidation. There must be at least 6 months of remaining validity on the passport upon re-entering the US.
Request a Travel Endorsement from DSO
The Designated School Official (DSO) is in charge of ensuring that international students comply with U.S. immigration laws and regulations while maintaining their student status. Before traveling, you should inform the DSO of your trip, request Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status), fill it out, and sign it. You should declare not to stay abroad for more than 5 months through this form.
Gather Supporting Documents
When traveling to Colombia on an F1 visa, individuals should carry the following required documents.
- A valid passport.
- A valid F1 visa stamp.
- Form I-20 signed by your Designated School Official (DSO).
- Proof of financial funds to support your stay in Colombia, such as bank statements, a letter from the sponsor, etc.
- Proof of enrollment in a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), such as course schedules, academic transcripts, a student’s ID card, or an admission letter.
- Notice of Action, a letter of employment, or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) (in the case of traveling during Optional Practical Training (OPT)).
Learn Entry Requirements for Colombia
You must bring the necessary documents to prove your traveling purpose and pass customs checks. The customs officials have the final say to decide whether to let you enter the country. Learning about the entry requirements can increase the chance of smooth entry.
Learn Re-Entry Requirements to the U.S.
You will be subject to examination by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers when returning to the U.S. Only when they verify your identity and your eligibility to enter as an international student will be be accepted entry. Learning about the re-entry requirements helps you return to continue your studies.
What Are the Entry Requirements for Colombia
International students studying in the US should prepare the following documents to travel to Colombia.
- Valid Passport
It must be valid for at least six months from the date of leaving Colombia. It is a universal rule for all cross-border travelers, including F1 visa holders.
- Colombian Visa
You might need to obtain a Colombian visa according to your purpose of visit and nationality. You are supposed to check with the Colombian embassy or consulate in the US for exact information and apply for it in advance.
- Return or Onward Ticket
It serves as proof of intention to leave the country after the permitted stay expires, which persuades the officer that you do not intend to immigrate to Colombia.
- Travel Itinerary
You should also demonstrate your travel plans at the immigration checkpoint, including when you will arrive and leave, where you will live, where you will visit, etc.
- Vaccination
The mandatory vaccination requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the regions you plan to visit, for example, yellow fever vaccination or COVID-19 vaccination. It is necessary to consult with a healthcare professional or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the most up-to-date information.
- Proof of Financial Means
You must prove that you have enough savings to cover your expenses during your stay in Colombia. It could be bank statements, credit cards, or a letter from a sponsor.
What to Prepare for Re-entry to the U.S. After Traveling
F1 visa holders should prepare the documents below before traveling outside the US.
- Valid Passport
It must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the US. If your passport does not satisfy the requirements, remember to renew or replace it before returning to the US.
- Valid F1 Visa Stamp
There must be a valid F1 visa stamp on your passport. If it has expired outside the US, please renew or extend it at a US embassy or consulate in Colombia.
- Approved Form I-20
You must ask the Designated School Official (DSO) to sign the Form I-20 and it must be done within the last year. It is used to prove that your DSO has been informed of and approved your travel.
- Payment Receipt of SEVIS Fee
The fee for the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) must be paid while initially applying for the F1 visa or while transferring to a new institution.
- Proof of Enrollment and Academic Standing
To get back to continue studying in the US, you have to prove that you have been admitted to an accredited US educational institution and you are in good academic standing, such as transcripts, class schedules, or an official letter from your school.
- Financial Proof
You have to prove that you are capable of paying the tuition fees and living expenses in the US. It can be bank statements, a letter from a sponsor, or a scholarship certificate.
What Happened If I Travel with an Expired F1 Visa
You will be rejected to enter the US on an expired F1 visa. The good news is that you can renew it inside or outside the US. The US Department of State (DOS) will conduct background checks and have an interview with visa applicants, which might take a few weeks. Therefore, it is suggested not to travel until you get a renewed visa.
Can I Renew My F1 Visa During Traveling?
Yes. You can renew your F1 visa at a nearby US embassy or consulate through the steps below. Below are the specific steps to renew your F1 visa while traveling:
- Fill in your DS-160 visa application form which is available on the official website of the US Department of State.
- Make an appointment with the nearby US embassy or consulate to submit the application.
- Prepare the required documents, including a valid passport, passport-size visa photo, Form I-20, and proof of university records.
- Pay the application fees and keep the payment receipt.
- Attend the appointment with the required documents and have an interview.
- Receive the renewed visa if your application is approved.
Where Can I Travel to With an F1 Visa
With an F1 visa, you can travel conveniently to some neighboring or subordinate regions of the US listed as follows.
| Antigua & Barbuda | Anguilla | Aruba | Barbados |
| Belize | Bermuda | Bermuda | Bermuda |
| British Virgin Islands | Canada | Cayman Islands | Costa Rica |
| Curaçao | El Salvador | Georgia | Guadeloupe |
| Guatemala | Haiti | Honduras | Jamaica |
| Martinique | Martinique | Mexico | Miquelon |
| Panama | Qatar | Saint Barthélemy | Saint Martin |
| Turks and Caicos Islands | Sint Maarten | Bahamas | Dominican Republic |
| Windward and Leeward Islands | Trinidad | Turkey | Saint Pierre |
| United States |
Among these countries and regions, you can travel visa-free to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands, Peru, the Northern Mariana Islands, Belize, Georgia, Qatar, Turkey, Bermuda, Panama, Antigua & Barbuda, Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Turks and Caicos Islands.
FAQ
How many days can I stay out of the US on an F1 visa?
According to the Form I-20, you must not stay for more than 5 months outside the US.
Can I travel to Colombia if my F-1 visa is about to expire?
Yes, but make sure it is valid when returning to the US.
Is it possible to travel after completing your program or OPT?
Yes, but it is suggested to ensure that you check your visa status and have the necessary documents, such as an EAD card and a valid passport to re-enter the US.
Am I allowed to travel domestically on an F-1 visa?
Yes. You can travel freely within the US without any restrictions.
What are the travel restrictions on an F1 visa?
Visa holders must maintain full-time student status. If you leave the US, you should notify the DSO of your travel plan and request a form I-20.
Can I go back to my country with an F-1 visa?
Yes, but you should ensure to have a valid passport and F1 visa for re-entry to the United States.
Can F-1 students go on cruises?
Yes, and make sure to meet specific entry requirements when taking an international cruise.
Summary
In conclusion, traveling to Colombia on an F-1 visa is possible. The Colombia entry requirements might vary depending on your nationality and travel purposes. We hope this article will help you prepare the required documents to enter Colombia and return to the US. It is recommended to plan well and enjoy your memorable journey to the beautiful South American country.