H-1B Travel and Re-Entry from Outside the US
Careful planning helps you avoid delays when traveling outside the United States and
returning in H-1B status. You are responsible for making sure your documents are valid,
complete, and consistent before departure and reentry.
Documents Needed for Re-Entry
When you return to the United States after temporary international travel, you should be prepared to present the following documents to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP):
- Original and unexpired Form I-797 H-1B Approval Notice
- Valid passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date
- Valid H-1B visa stamp (if required for reentry)
- Employment verification letter from HR and/or recent pay statements (recommended from the last three months)
- Copy of your H-1B petition as filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
These documents confirm your approved employment and help support your reentry in
H-1B status.
Before You Travel
You must plan ahead before leaving the United States.
Contact VIS in advance if:
- You need to apply for a new H-1B visa stamp
- Your H-1B extension or amendment is pending with USCIS
- Your travel occurs close to a job change, amendment, or extension filing
If you require a new visa or visa renewal, VIS will guide you on timing and required
documentation. Do not travel without confirming your eligibility for reentry if your
petition or visa status is uncertain.
Important Travel Considerations
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) determines your admission to the United States at the port of entry.
After each entry, you must review your electronic Form I-94 to confirm:
- Your status is listed as H-1B
- Your authorized stay end date matches your H-1B approval notice
If your I-94 does not match the end date of your Form I-797 H-1B approval, contact Visa and Immigration Services (VIS) immediately for review and correction guidance.
After Re-Entry
Once you return to the United States, please complete the following steps:
- Verify your I-94 record online
- Confirm your H-1B classification and validity dates
- Submit the Immigration Document Update eform in accessVIS
- Report any discrepancies to VIS as soon as possible