Automatic Visa Revalidation (AVR) allows certain individuals with expired F or J visas to re-enter the United States after a short leave without applying for a new visa.
Automatic Visa Revalidation (AVR) is a U.S. policy that allows certain individuals with expired F or J visas to re-enter the U.S. after short travels.
You may be eligible for AVR if you meet all of the following conditions:
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Your U.S. F or J visa has expired.
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Your I-20 and I-94 are still valid, which means you have a legal status in the U.S.
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You have been outside the U.S. for no more than 30 days, traveling only to Canada, Mexico, or adjacent islands (excluding Cuba).
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You did not apply for a U.S. visa while in Canada, Mexico, or the adjacent islands during this trip.
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Your passport is valid for at least 6 more months.
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You are not a citizen of Iran, Syria, Sudan, or North Korea.
If you meet these criteria, U.S. immigration officials will check your visa at the border and allow you to re-enter the country.
You are not eligible for AVR if you meet any of the following conditions:
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You applied for a U.S. visa while in Canada, Mexico, or adjacent islands, but your application has not yet been approved.
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You applied for a new visa and were denied.
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Your SEVIS status has been terminated.
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You have been outside the U.S. for more than 30 days.
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Your passport is valid for less than 6 months.
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You are a national of Iran, Syria, Sudan, or North Korea.
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You traveled to Cuba during your time outside the U.S.
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You hold an M student visa and have traveled outside the U.S. (excluding Canada and Mexico).
Note:
While many international students have successfully re-entered the U.S. through AVR, it is important to understand that your re-entry is ultimately at the discretion of the customs officer. The result depends largely on whether you encounter a "friendly" officer. Even if you have all the necessary documents, there is still a risk of being denied entry. It is advisable to consult an immigration lawyer or your school's International Students Office in advance to ensure you are fully informed of the latest regulations.
Appendix: List of Islands Eligible for Re-entry to the U.S. under AVR
