S5 Q&A: My F-1 visa has expired - can I travel home and come back?

 You'll need a new F-1 visa from a US consulate before you can return, so plan for appointment wait times and bring your I-20, proof of enrollment, financial documents and your CPT employer letter. Visa renewals while on CPT can bring extra questions, so prepare honest, consistent answers. Our senior consultant helps you prepare if your history has anything unusual.