The F-1 Student Immigration Checklist: Every Date You Need to Track

F-1 Students Have the Most Complex Immigration Timelines

If you're an F-1 international student, you're managing more immigration dates than almost any other visa holder. Get one wrong, and you could lose your student status, your OPT authorization, or your ability to re-enter the US.

This is your complete checklist.

Document 1: F-1 Visa Stamp

Renewal lead: 90 days before travel

Your F-1 visa stamp allows you to enter the United States. It can be expired while you're studying inside the US — but you need a valid stamp to re-enter after international travel.

Track this if: You plan to travel internationally during your program.

Document 2: I-20 Program End Date

Renewal lead: 120 days

Your I-20 is issued by your school's Designated School Official (DSO). It shows your authorized program end date. Maintaining full-time enrollment keeps your status active.

Action needed: If you need an extension (changing programs, taking longer), contact your DSO well before the I-20 end date.

Document 3: SEVIS Registration

Track with your DSO

Your SEVIS record must be maintained. Take breaks in enrollment only with DSO authorization (authorized vacation, medical leave, etc.).

Document 4: Passport

Renewal lead: 270 days

Your passport must be valid throughout your program and for travel. Some countries allow renewal through the consulate in the US.

Document 5: OPT EAD (If Applicable)

Renewal lead: 150 days

For Optional Practical Training (OPT), you must apply 90 days before your graduation date (or OPT start date). The I-765 takes up to 90 days to process — file early.

OPT gives you 12 months of work authorization in your field of study.

Document 6: STEM OPT Extension (If Applicable)

Renewal lead: 120 days

If you're in a STEM field, you can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. You must apply before your OPT EAD expires.

Requirements: - STEM-eligible degree - Employment with an E-Verify employer - IEP (Individual Employment Plan) signed by both you and your employer

The F-1 Timeline Summary

Common F-1 Mistakes

1. 1.Missing the OPT application window (there's a 60-day period before graduation)
2. 2.Starting work before your OPT EAD arrives
3. 3.Taking more than 90 days of unemployment during OPT
4. 4.Forgetting to update your DSO on employer changes during OPT

Track Everything in DueVisa

DueVisa has a dedicated F-1 document set that includes all 6 documents above, pre-configured with the right reminder timelines. Start tracking for free at duevisa.com.