On Nov. 1, 2021, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) published policy guidance outlining the new procedure for the use of electronic signatures and transmission of the Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.”

This guidance permits designated school officials to electronically sign and transmit the Form I-20 to initial and continuing international students and their dependents, using software programs or applications or by using electronically reproduced copies of a signature. Additionally, school officials may scan and email or electronically transmit the Form I-20 via a 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.

Find 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.

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 (SRC).