Validity

All nonimmigrants in the U.S. must maintain a valid passport. Passports should be valid for at least six months when applying for admission to the U.S. and when applying for a visa stamp. The passport should maintain this validity rule when aplying for benefits, such as a program extension, and even work authorization to follow studies.

When to Renew

The ISO recommends that individuals apply to renew their passports at least six months prior to expiration. Please contact your local embassy for information about the passport renewal process.

Travel Issues

The period of admission on Form I-94 or the admission receipt may be abbreviated due to a passport expiration. Accordingly, please be sure to check any new passport stamp to ensure that an upcoming passport expiration has not shortened your period of admission.  Remember that your passport must be valid to depart the U.S., and valid for at least 6 months upon return.