An international student on F-1 visa is facing a serious travel dilemma. The student graduated in December 2025 and submitted the OPT application in February 2026. However, a sudden family emergency forced the student to leave the US while the application was still pending.
While staying outside the US, the student received a biometrics appointment notice. This means they must now return to the US to attend the appointment. The situation has created stress and uncertainty about re-entry.
Re-entering the US with a pending OPT application and an expired I-20 can be risky. Official Immigrations and Customs Enforcement guidelines say re-entry is possible in some cases. However, it must be handled with extreme caution.
Travellers are usually expected to carry a physical Employment Authorisation Document card. In this case, the student does not yet have the EAD card because the OPT application is still under processing. This makes travel more complicated.
Customs and Border Patrol officers at the Port of Entry have full discretion over entry decisions. If entry is denied, the student may be placed on the next flight back home. The final decision always rests with the officer on duty.
Airlines may also refuse boarding if they believe the passenger could be denied entry. They often take a cautious approach in such cases. This is because airlines face federal fines and must bear the cost of return travel for denied passengers.
To improve their chances, the student must obtain a travel-endorsed I-20 from their Designated School Officer. Carrying the OPT receipt notice is also important. These documents together can strengthen their case at the Port of Entry.
Careful preparation and proper documentation are essential in this situation. Even though re-entry is possible, it involves risk. Students in similar cases are advised to consult their DSO before making travel plans.
