Passport expired while I'm in a Day 1 CPT program — what are my options?

Day 1 CPT Universities
1

Hey everyone,
I’m currently enrolled in a Day 1 CPT university and just realized my Indian passport is either about to expire soon or may already be expired :grimacing:. I know most schools want you to have a valid passport the whole time you’re enrolled, so now I’m a bit stressed.

I know one option is to fly back to India and renew it there, but honestly, that’s not ideal since we’re mid-semester and traveling internationally on CPT doesn’t seem smart (especially with how things have been at the border lately). I’ve heard December break is the safest time to travel if absolutely needed, but even then, it’s kind of risky.

Has anyone here gone through the renewal process while staying in the U.S.? How smooth was it? Did it affect your CPT or university status in any way?

Would really appreciate any advice or experiences from others who’ve dealt with this :folded_hands:

2

Hey, no need to panic this happens more often than you’d think

You can renew your Indian passport while staying in the U.S. by applying through your local Indian consulate. The process is pretty straightforward if all your documents are in order, and you don’t need to travel internationally just for this.

It won’t mess with your CPT or university status, but make sure your passport stays valid, since it’s tied to your I-20 and SEVIS record. I’d also recommend letting your DSO know just so they’re aware.

Definitely try to apply as soon as possible the earlier you start, the less stressful it’ll be. You got this!

3

Totally agree with this — no need to panic!

I’ve go through the passport renewal process here in the U.S., and as long as your paperwork is in order, it’s pretty smooth. Definitely don’t wait until the last minute though — the earlier you apply, the less stressful it’ll be, especially if you have travel or visa stuff coming up.

Also +1 on letting your DSO know. Better to keep them in the loop just in case anything shows up in your SEVIS updates.

You’ll be fine — just take it step by step!

4

Thanks for bringing this up—you’re definitely not alone, and it’s great that you’re thinking ahead. Here’s what I can share based on personal experience and what we’ve seen with other students:

:india:

Renewing Your Indian Passport in the U.S.

Yes, you can absolutely renew your Indian passport while staying in the U.S.—no need to fly back to India unless you’re facing a very unusual case.

Most Indian citizens in the U.S. use VFS Global to renew their passports. It’s the official service provider for the Indian Embassy and Consulates. The process is fairly straightforward:

  1. Complete the application online through the Passport Seva portal
  2. Submit documents and payment via the VFS Global site
  3. Mail in your current passport and supporting documents
  4. Most renewals take 3–5 weeks, though it can vary

:page_facing_up:

Will this affect your CPT or University Status?

In most cases: No, it won’t—as long as you remain enrolled and meet your program’s CPT and academic requirements.

That said, do check:

  • Whether your DSO needs a copy of the updated passport once it’s renewed
  • If your passport is already expired, you should act ASAP—some schools or HR departments may flag it during routine audits
  • If your passport is still valid but within 6 months of expiry, it’s the perfect time to renew proactively

:passport_control:

A few extra tips:

  • You can keep a photocopy/scanned version of your passport for ID purposes while your original is with VFS
  • If you have travel plans before December, wait until afterward to renew—or expedite if truly urgent
  • Avoid booking travel until your new passport is in hand (just in case of delays)

:white_check_mark: In Summary:

  • Yes, you can renew in the U.S.
  • Doesn’t impact your CPT or visa status as long as you stay enrolled and in status
  • Start the process early to stay ahead and avoid stress later

Wishing you a smooth renewal! If you need help with the VFS forms or want a checklist of what to prepare, feel free to DM.

5

Thanks! We have started a process. It’s going pretty smoothly so far. Thanks everyone.