Can I transit in the U.S. with a student visa?

I have a U.S. student visa (F1) that is valid until next year. I booked a ticket from Hong Kong to Mexico City, and I will have a layover in Los Angeles for about 5 hours. Although the purpose of my travel isn't to study in the U.S., I do have a valid student visa. Can I still transit in the U.S.?

visas usa transit

Best Answer

Your F1 (Student Visa) is only valid if you also have a valid I-20 form signed by the university or college that you are currently enrolled in (or if you have finished your program, are currently working on the practical training (OPT) option of the F1).

If you are in one of these situations, your school should have signed your I-20 before you left the country so that you can return to your studies. If this is the case, the signature is usually valid for one year, and you should be able to transit through the US without trouble.

If you do not have such a document, your F1 visa is essentially useless. If you qualify for the Visa Waiver program, you don't need a visa for transit, otherwise you will need to apply for a visa. See

Do I need a US visa to transit (or layover) through an American airport?

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Do I need a transit visa if I have a student visa?

India. If you have to leave the international terminal for your connecting plane, train, or car, you'll need a transit visa. If you remain at the airport, you're fine.

Is visa required for connecting flights in USA?

Yes. There is no transit at US airports and you will need to clear both Immigration and Customs at your first point of entry into the US regardless. You will need either an ESTA or a Visa. If you are unable to get either one, suggest you find an alternate route that avoids the US.

Can f1 visa students enter the US?

At this time, international students must have the following documents in order to travel to the U.S. in F-1 status: Valid I-20 issued by the UW (valid travel signature required if you are returning to the U.S. to continue studies) Valid passport that must be valid for 6 months beyond your expected return to the U.S.

Do I Need A Transit Visa If My Plane Has A Stop In The US?

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