International travel while in H-1B status requires proper documentation and advance planning. Re-entry to the United States is not guaranteed and is subject to inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Employees should consult Human Resources prior to international travel if they have a pending petition, recently approved petition, or upcoming expiration date.
Required Travel Documents
When traveling internationally in H-1B status, you should carry:
Valid Passport
Valid for at least six months beyond intended entry date, if applicable.
H-1B Visa Stamp
Valid visa stamp in your passport (unless visa-exempt).
Form I-797 & Documents
Approval notice (original or copy), recent pay statements, copy of your H-1B petition (recommended), and Employment verification letter.
Canadian citizens are generally exempt from the visa stamp requirement but must present their H-1B approval notice at the port of entry.
Visa Stamping
If your H-1B visa stamp in your passport has expired, you must obtain a new visa stamp at a U.S. embassy or consulate outside the United States before returning.
Visa issuance is at the discretion of the U.S. Department of State.
Processing times and appointment availability vary by location. Employees should review embassy-specific instructions prior to scheduling travel.
Travel After Approval
If your petition has been approved and you remain in valid H-1B status:
- You may travel and return using your valid visa stamp and approval notice.
- If your visa stamp has expired, you must obtain a new visa before re-entering the United States.
Travel While a Petition Is Pending
Travel while a petition is pending may have immigration consequences. Travel without prior review may result in delays or denial of re-entry.
Employees should consult Human Resources before traveling if:
- An extension petition has been filed but not yet approved
- An amended petition has been filed
- You are approaching your expiration date
Travel & H-4 Dependents
Dependents in H-4 status must carry:
- Valid passport
- Valid H-4 visa stamp (unless visa-exempt)
- Copy of the H-1B approval notice
- Proof of relationship (if applicable)
Dependents should not travel if an H-4 extension or change of status is pending without consulting Human Resources.
Questions
If you have questions regarding H-1B sponsorship, please contact Danielle Anderson or Brittani Anderson in Human Resources.
The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.