New SEVP Policy Guidance: Use of Electronic Signatures and Transmission for the Form I-20

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student and exchange visitor program

Welcome to News and Updates from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This message provides useful information for the international student and academic communities.

Form I-20 Guidance

Use of Electronic Signatures and Transmission for the Form I-20

On Nov. 1, 2021, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) published SEVP Policy Guidance: Use of Electronic Signatures and Transmission for the Form I-20, which establishes the procedures for the use of electronic signatures and transmission of the Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Students.” This guidance permits designated school officials (DSOs) to electronically sign and transmit the Form I-20 to initial and continuing students and their dependents.

Under this guidance, DSOs may electronically sign all signature fields on the Form I-20 using software programs or applications, or by using electronically reproduced copies of a personal signature. Additionally, school officials may scan and email or electronically transmit the Form I-20 via secure platform, such as a school portal or other secure site, to F and M students and their dependents. DSOs may also choose to still physically sign and mail the Form I-20 to students.

Additional Information and Resources

Read the full guidance at ICE.gov/SEVIS/Schools, in the Policy section under the Resources header. Please note that this guidance only applies to the Form I-20; there are currently no additional changes to other SEVP forms or processes.

SEVP coordinated with its government partners within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of State and U.S. Social Security Administration to ensure continued acceptance of electronically signed Forms I-20. If a student or school official encounters an issue with a government partner accepting an electronically signed Form I-20 or has questions about this guidance, please contact the SEVP Response Center.

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