Travel in H-1B Status
Below is a cursory discussion of international travel for individuals in H-1B status. For more information, please see the handout Travel in H-1B Status .
Travel and Return to the U.S. with a Valid Visa
Whenever you travel outside the U.S. and will re-enter as an H-1B, carry the following documents with you:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your anticipated stay)
- Valid visa stamp (not required for citizens of Canada or Bermuda)
- H-1B Approval Notice (Form I-797). The upper portion is retained by the employer (and lent to you) and the lower portion (which contains your new I-94 card) was given to you when your petition was approved.
- Most recent pay stub(s) to verify continued H-1B employment
- A letter from your supervisor verifying your employment (optional). I am also happy to write a status letter to accompany your documents. Please contact me at least 1 week before your planned departure.
Always consult the International Faculty Advisor before you travel if:
- a new petition for H-1B employment at PSU is currently pending.
- a petition for H-1B extension has been filed by PSU and is currently pending.
- PSU has filed a new H-1B petition for your employment at PSU under portability and you have changed jobs from another employer where you were already in H-1B status.
- you have a pending I-485 (Application to Adjust Status)
In some of these cases, travel may not be possible, or additional documentation may be required or recommended.
When you return to the U.S.:
- Fill out your I-94 card carefully. If you make a mistake, request a new card. Enter your birthdate in the order requested (usually DD/MM/YYYY) and be consistent in how you write your name.
- Review the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) stamp on your I-94 card. It should indicate:
- Your date of entry into the U.S.
- Your status as H-1B (or H-4 for dependents); and
- An end date that is the same as on your H-1B Approval Notice.
- If you notice any mistakes, ask the CBP officer to review your documents before you leave. If no changes are made or your documents still appear to be incorrect, consult the International Faculty Advisor immediately upon your return to campus.
- Do not remain in the US beyond the end date on your I-94 card.
Download the complete handout, with additional information on:
- Obtaining an H-1B visa while traveling abroad
- Travel and H-4 dependents
- NSEERS (Special Registration)