Automatic visa revalidation is a benefit that allows certain nonimmigrants with expired visas to re-enter the U.S. after visiting a “contiguous territory” for 30 days or less.
January 2026 Update
Given evolving uncertainties in the current immigration climate, we cannot, at this time, recommend pursuing this option.
If you wish to attempt visa revalidation, we strongly encourage you seek guidance from a qualified immigration attorney. They will be able to assess your individual circumstances.
Contiguous territories include Canada, Mexico and adjacent islands including Saint Pierre, Miquelon, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Bermuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, the Windward and Leeward Islands, Trinidad, Martinique, and other British, French, and Netherlands territories or possessions in or bordering on the Caribbean Sea.
You may be eligible for automatic visa revalidation based on multiple factors. This includes your immigration status, country of citizenship, and the length and purpose of your travel.
Department of State site
If you are trying to re-enter the U.S. using the automatic revalidation, you must have your printed I-94 upon re-entry. In addition, you must carry all other valid travel documents relevant to your status (passport, I-20/DS-2019 or I-797). F and J status holders must travel with a valid signature on their I-20 or DS-2019.
Dependents may re-enter the U.S. under the same guidelines as the primary status holder.
You are never guaranteed admission for re-entry, even if all of the above criteria are met. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials have discretion to approve or deny entry to anyone for reasons that may or may not be known by the visitor. If you are eligible for automatic visa revalidation, we recommend that you print out the policy to show to a CBP officer if necessary.
Travel after a change of visa status
Nonimmigrants who travel and have changed status while in the U.S., whether within a visa category (e.g., F-2 to F-1, or J-2 to J-1) or between categories (e.g., F-1 to H-1B, or F-1 to J-1), must apply for a visa in the new category in order to be readmitted.
Disclaimer statement
The WashU Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) offers guidance on the visa stamp application process as a courtesy to WashU students and scholars. We make every attempt to ensure that we share the most current guidance and information available. However, any advice provided by our office does not constitute legal advice. Students should always independently check U.S. Embassy/Consulate websites for policies and procedures. Be aware that the Department of State (DOS) may change its interpretation of applicable policies, procedures, regulations, and eligibility requirements at any time. OISS is not responsible for, and expressly disclaims liability for, any errors or omissions relating to your visa application and any decisions made by DOS. For legal advice, students are encouraged to consult with a licensed, experienced immigration attorney at their own expense.