Electronic I-20 Acceptance by SEVP, CBP & DOS
/On March 26, 2020, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) provided guidance on electronic Form I-20 issuance due to COVID-19. Designated School Officials (DSO)’s can electronically send students signed Forms I-20s instead of via regular mail. In the case of a minor student, the email address may belong to their parent or legal guardian. Schools do not need to request permission from SEVP or report their plans to electronically send Forms I-20 as part of their COVID-19 procedural changes.
There are various methods that DSOs can use to sign and send I-20s.SEVP has identified the following methods to sign and send the Form I-20:
Email a scanned version of the physically signed Form I-20;
Email a digitally signed Form I-20 using electronic signature software; or
Email a digitally signed Form I-20 that contains a digitally reproduced copy of a physical signature.
Please remember only approved principal designated school officials (PDSOs) and DSOs may physically sign or input their own digital signature to the Form I-20. Improper issuance of the Form I-20 in this manner may constitute grounds for withdrawal of SEVP certification. By signing the Form I-20 or inputting their digital signature, PDSOs and DSOs attest that they are the approved individual issuing the Form I-20.
Please continue to reference https://www.ice.gov/covid19 for the latest news and updates and changes due to COVID-19. Iandoli Desai & Cronin P.C. will also continue to monitor the situation and provide updates.
