travel documents h1b

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H-1B Travel Documents

Required documents for h-1b travel.

To re-enter the U.S. in H-1B status and resume employment, bring the following documents:

Passport valid for six months beyond the duration of H-1B status (see dates on the I-797 approval notice)
I-797 approval notice, original version (contact Berkeley International Office if the original version was lost or damaged)
Letter verifying current employment from employing department (confirming continued employment, job title, annual salary, and dates of employment as listed on your I-797 H-1B approval notice), dated within one month of the visa interview or re-entry
Most recent UC Berkeley pay statements (last 3 months)
H-1B valid visa stamp (not necessary for Canadian citizens)
Copies of forms I-129
Copy of Certified Labor Condition Application filed on the employee's behalf by the Berkeley International Office
Curriculum vitae
Additional documents may be required, check with embassy. These may include evidence of meeting required qualifications etc.

If your visa has expired or you have changed your status to H-1B within the U.S. :

Obtain an H-1B visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate before returning to the U.S. Present the above-mentioned travel documents to the consulate.

If you have a valid H-1B visa issued with a prior employer's name:

The visa remains valid until the date of its expiration. H-1B employees who change employers in the U.S. may use the previously issued H-1B visa to apply for admission to the U.S. if the dates are still valid. Employees must carry all the other travel-related documents to re-enter the country successfully.

US Department of State Announces New Domestic Visa Renewal Pilot Program:

The US Department of State has posted information and FAQs on the pilot program to allow certain H-1B nonimmigrants to renew their visas in the U.S. Applications will be accepted from January 29, 2024 to April 1, 2024, or until all application slots are filled, whichever comes first. See the US Department of State website: Domestic Renewal of H-1B Visas for Certain Applicants
Eligibility is limited to a narrow group of individuals. Individuals can check if they are eligible for this program by using the Navigator Tool on the website that says "Am I Eligible for Domestic Renewal" . Individuals who do not meet the requirements, or those who choose not to participate in the pilot program, may continue to apply for visa renewal at a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas.

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International Employees

Travel on the H-1B

When traveling on the h-1b visa, you will require the following documentation to reenter the u.s.: .

Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity at the time of admission to the U.S.
Valid H-1B visa stamp in your passport, obtained from a U.S. Consulate abroad.
Original H-1B approval notice (I-797) from UConn.
Current letter from your hiring department verifying continued employment. a. Should be less than 6 months old. b. Your H-1B petition supporting letter will suffice if less than 6 months old. c. Or, obtain an employment verification letter from your department.
Copy of the H-1B petition materials given to you by OGC (LCA, I-129 and supporting letter).
Several recent paystubs as evidence of continued employment with UConn (not necessary for initial employment with UConn).
For H-4 dependents, proof of the relationship to H-1B principle beneficiary (marriage certificate; birth certificate).

Continued validity of H visas after employer change

If you have changed employers since first entering the U.S. in H-1B status and have a valid, unexpired H-1B visa annotated for the previous employer, you may reenter the U.S. using that visa, presenting the valid UConn H-1B approval notice and the UConn H-1B petition materials upon reentry to the U.S.

Travel Abroad Exception with an Expired H-1B visa stamp

An H-1B holder who has current H-1B classification (either initial or extension) may reenter the U.S. with an expired H-1B visa stamp after a trip solely to Canada or Mexico (not to U.S. territories/ the islands in the Caribbean) that lasted no more than 30 days (22 C.F.R. § 41.112(d)).

In such circumstances, you must NOT surrender your current I-94 upon departure from the U.S.

► We recommended that you make an advisory appointment with Immigration Services before trying this – current practices may change.

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Travel in H-1B Status

When you travel outside of the U.S., you should take the following with you:

A copy of the H-1B petition/Form I-129 as it was submitted to USCIS
The original I-797 approval notice
Your valid passport
Proof that you are maintaining H-1B status (3 recent paystubs)
You can also request a “Travel Letter” from our office. This is not required , it is a courtesy that OIS provides.

To request a Travel Letter:

Go to iHopkins Self-Service Portal: http://ihopkins.jhu.edu/
Use iHopkins login option #1: ACTIVE JHED LOGIN. Enter your JHED ID (network/login ID) and password
Click “ University Employment ” from left side menu
Click “ Travel Letter Request ” to open the eForm
Complete and submit the eForm

You are required to have a valid H-1B visa in your passport to return to the U.S. from all countries except for brief trips (less than 30 days) to Canada & Mexico ( see below ). Before applying for the H-1B visa at a U.S. Consulate/Embassy abroad, please review the U.S. Consulate/Embassy website where you will apply for the visa to see if they require documents in addition to those listed above. Please note that Canadian citizens are exempt from the visa stamp requirement.

You are permitted to travel to Canada and Mexico for less than 30 days without a H-1B visa stamp in your passport (you still need to take the other documents mentioned above). For detailed information about automatic visa revalidation, please refer to the information provided on Department of State’s website .

Important Steps to take when you return to the U.S. from travel abroad :

If you have an electronic I-94, retrieve and print your I-94. To access your record you will need your passport. Go to https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home
Your name should appear as it is stated in your passport
The appropriate visa classification (H-1B or H-4)
The end date on the I-94 should match the H-1B approval notice (Form I-797) or be extended for 10 additional days beyond the end date of the H-1B approval notice
If your I-94 is shortened due to your passport expiring prior to the I-797, your status will end on the date marked on the I-94 record rather than the H-1B approval notice
Contact the OIS if you notice an error or data inconsistency, or if the end date on the I-94 does not match your H-1B approval notice (or the H1B approval end date + 10 days)
Upon return from travel, document your time abroad on the Recapture Worksheet. The worksheet will make extensions beyond six years less cumbersome, and help ensure all available H-1B time can be requested from USCIS

Recapture Worksheet

Travel Information
Visa Renewal
Special Administrative Processing
Automatic Revalidation
Travel While on OPT
Travel in J-1 ECFMG Status
Travel in O-1 Status
Emergency Information

Office of International Services

Office of International Students & Scholars

Traveling in h-1b status, h-1b travel document checklist.

Valid I-797 Approval Notice for Yale University
Copy of all supporting documents issued to you in OISS Connect including the Beneficiary Copy of your petition (forms including the I-129 and the Labor Condition application, along with Support Letter and other petition documents)
Copy of paystubs from Yale for the most recent three months
If you were subject to the J-1/J-2 two-year home-residency requirement prior to obtaining H-1B, bring a copy of your Form I-612 Waiver Approval issued by USCIS.

International travel with H-1B status can be complicated. Below are some basic guidelines with which you should be familiar. However, it is recommended that you check with your adviser before you travel if you have any questions about your situation.

Please refer to the Arriving in the U.S.: Immigration Inspection page for a full list of all documents.

All international scholars/employees and family members planning to depart from the U.S. and return after a temporary absence must have a valid passport in order to exit the U.S. The passport must also be valid for a minimum of six months into the future at the time of re-entry to the U.S. Some countries have an agreement with the U.S. that automatically extends passport validity for 6 months , for U.S. entry purposes only. Please make sure to review the information in the Passport Expiration section below.

Except for Canadian citizens, all international scholars/employees and family members will also need to have a valid H-1B/H-4 visa stamp in their passport issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. Visa stamps cannot be obtained or renewed inside the U.S.

The only exception to this is the limited pilot program that the Department of State is running for the renewal of certain H-1B visas . You can find more information about this limited program on this page . The Department of State indicated that they plan to expand this program in the future and we will update our website as more information becomes available.

I-94 Record

H status holders are given a specific departure date on the I-94 and must depart the U.S. by this date. It is critical that you know and check this date upon every entry to the U.S. Check also an ink entry stamp with an annotation (the visa type and validity date) given in your passport upon entry. If the visa type and/or validity date do not match your H-1B approval notice, you must speak with your OISS adviser . Please also see the Passport Expiration and I-94 Validity sections below.

General Guidance for Traveling and Re-entering the U.S.

H-1B Travel Considerations

Change to h-1b status.

Scholars/employees are advised to not travel outside the U.S. during a pending change of status H-1B petition (e.g., those who are changing from an F-1/J-1/Other to H-1B), as international travel will complicate your work authorization eligibility/immigration status. If you have an unavoidable reason that requires you to leave the U.S., please consult with your OISS adviser before making your travel plans.

Extension of H-1B Status

If you must travel outside the U.S. during the H-1B extension process, you should speak to your OISS adviser as soon as possible before making your travel plans. Because your travel plans may affect your H-1B extension processing timing, you must coordinate closely with your OISS adviser.

If you plan to return to the U.S. before the expiration of your current approved H-1B status and with a valid H-1B visa stamp, there may not be any difficulty.
However, depending on when the H-1B extension petition is submitted to USCIS, your international travel plans may complicate your H-1B status; therefore it is highly recommended to travel with the extension approval. This may require premium processing .
If you travel after the H-1B extension petition is approved but will return before the current H-1B petition expiration date, it is advisable to travel with both the current and new approval notices. If your H-1B visa stamp is valid on your reentry date, you may use it for admission.
If you plan to leave the U.S. while the extension petition is still pending and your current H-1B status is expired, you cannot return to the U.S. until the extension petition is approved. The approval notice must be sent to you abroad. You also have to apply for a new H-1B visa stamp with a consulate or embassy before you can return to the U.S.
After you have received the new H-1B extension approval notice, you may travel outside the U.S. once again. However, while outside the U.S., you will have to obtain a new H-1B visa stamp at a U.S. embassy or consulate. It is normally not possible to obtain visa stamps inside the U.S. and the only exception to this is the limited pilot program that the Department of State is running for the renewal of certain H-1B visas . You can find more information about this limited program on this page .

Changing H-1B Employer to Yale

If you have any plans to travel outside the U.S. during the portable H-1B (changing employer) process, you should speak to your OISS adviser as soon as possible.

If you plan to return to the U.S. before the expiration of your current approved H-1B petition with an old employer and with a valid H-1B visa stamp, there may not be any difficulty. However, if your return date to the U.S. is after your start date with Yale, you may have difficulty at a port of entry.
Depending on when the portable petition is submitted to USCIS, your international travel plan may complicate your H-1B status with Yale; therefore it is highly recommended to travel with the portable H-1B approval. This may require premium processing .
If you travel after the portable petition is approved and after your start date at Yale, you must travel with the new approval notice for the Yale appointment. If your H-1B visa stamp is valid on your reentry date, you may use it for admission, even if the visa stamp may have your old employer's name on it; however, make sure to present your Yale H-1B approval notice upon entry to obtain the correct H-1B status validity on your I-94. Check your I-94 validity and an ink entry stamp given in your passport as soon as possible upon your entry.
If you plan to leave the U.S. while the portable petition is still pending and your current H-1B petition with the old employer is expired, you cannot return to the U.S. until the portable petition is approved. The approval notice must be sent to you abroad. You will also have to apply for a new H-1B visa stamp with a consulate or embassy before you can return to the U.S.
After you have received the portable H-1B approval notice, you may travel outside the U.S. once again. However, while outside the U.S., you will have to obtain a new H-1B visa stamp at a U.S. embassy or consulate. It is normally not possible to obtain visa stamps inside the U.S. and the only exception to this is the limited pilot program that the Department of State is running for the renewal of certain H-1B visas . You can find more information about this limited program on this page .

Passport Expiration

If you or your H-4 dependents are traveling with a passport that will expire before your H approval end date, you will be admitted to the U.S. only for the duration that your passport is valid. This means that your I-94 and legal stay in the U.S. will end earlier than your H-1B approval end date. You will be required to renew your passport and may need to travel outside the U.S. again to be admitted for the full duration of your H approval. If you are in H-1B status and do not travel, Yale will be required to file an H-1B extension on your behalf. H-4 dependents who do not travel will need to file an extension of their H-4 status. It is your responsibility to communicate any status issues to your OISS adviser .

I-94 Validity

Please pay extra attention to your most recent I-94 record and make sure that you will not inadvertently lose H-1B status and work authorization . At the immigration officer's discretion, some H visa holders may be given a 10-day grace period reflecting on their I-94. The grace period is outside the approved H-1B petition period that allows you to work in the U.S. Do not confuse this with H-1B validity date mismatch and speak with your OISS adviser .

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H-1B Program
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The H-1B program applies to employers seeking to hire nonimmigrant aliens as workers in specialty occupations or as fashion models of distinguished merit and ability. A specialty occupation is one that requires the application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and the attainment of at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. The intent of the H-1B provisions is to help employers who cannot otherwise obtain needed business skills and abilities from the U.S. workforce by authorizing the temporary employment of qualified individuals who are not otherwise authorized to work in the United States.

The law establishes certain standards in order to protect similarly employed U.S. workers from being adversely affected by the employment of the nonimmigrant workers, as well as to protect the H-1B nonimmigrant workers. Employers must attest to the Department of Labor that they will pay wages to the H-1B nonimmigrant workers that are at least equal to the actual wage paid by the employer to other workers with similar experience and qualifications for the job in question, or the prevailing wage for the occupation in the area of intended employment – whichever is greater.

On January 15, 2021, the U.S. Department of Labor (Department) issued an Office of Foreign Labor Certification H-1B Program Bulletin and a Wage and Hour Division Field Assistance Bulletin (FAB) revising its interpretation of its regulations concerning which employers of H-1B workers must file Labor Condition Applications. The Department simultaneously submitted a Notice for publication in the Federal Register announcing and requesting public comments on this interpretation. On January 20, 2021, the Department withdrew its Notice from the Office of the Federal Register prior to its publication, and is now withdrawing the Bulletin and FAB for the purpose of considering the process for issuing this interpretation as well as reviewing related issues of law, fact, and policy. Accordingly, the requirements of the Bulletin and FAB are no longer in effect. The Department will notify the public of any further actions as appropriate once it completes its review.

General Guidance

Field Assistance Bulletin 2019-3: Compliance with the H-1B Notice Requirement by Electronic Posting (PDF)
Employment Law Guide: Workers in Professional and Specialty Occupations (H-1B and H-1B1 Visas)
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Prevailing Wage Determinations for Nonagricultural Programs
Wages under Foreign Labor Certification
H-1B Workers Rights Card

H-1B Presentation

The Employment of Non-Immigrants on H-1B Visas (Microsoft® PowerPoint®)
New Labor Condition Application (Form ETA 9035) with Instructions
WH-4, H-1B Nonimmigrant Information Form
H-1B Fact Sheets - Numerical Index

Disqualified and Willful Violator Employers

H-1B Willful Violators List
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Boston-area Immigration Attorneys

International Travel Considerations for Nonimmigrants

By Victoria Morte , Immigration Attorney

Updated November 16, 2022

Foreign nationals present in the United States in a temporary status — including H-1B, L-1, F-1, J-1, and TN — and their dependent family members are “nonimmigrants,” admitted to the United States for a set period and specific purpose. After traveling internationally, nonimmigrants must show a valid visa stamp in the appropriate category at a port of entry to reenter the United States. Limited exceptions to this requirement exist for nonimmigrants who have a valid Form I-94 record of admission and have traveled only to Mexico or Canada for a trip of 30 days or less and for Canadian citizens, who are visa exempt.

As we emerge from COVID-19 consular closures and visa stamping backlogs, several new initiatives and discretionary policies are in place to facilitate and expedite nonimmigrant visa stamping. Foreign nationals should always keep in mind that policies may vary worldwide and may be subject to change at any time.

Here, we summarize important considerations and current nonimmigrant visa stamping options available for foreign nationals traveling internationally.

Automatic Visa Revalidation

Automatic visa revalidation allows a foreign national to travel internationally to Mexico or Canada for a trip totaling less than 30 days and to return to the United States without a valid visa stamp in certain circumstances. To qualify for automatic visa revalidation, the foreign national must have a prior U.S. visa and a valid I-94 reflecting an approved extension or change of status and cannot be applying for a new visa stamp on the trip. Then, a foreign national can travel to Canada or Mexico (with applicable documents required for entry to the country) and can return to the United States using their expired visa stamp, or a visa stamp reflecting a prior status that has since changed, together with their valid I-94. Under these circumstances, U.S. Customs and Border Protection will readmit the foreign national based on the valid I-94.

The Visa Application Process

The U.S. Department of State (DOS), via U.S. Embassies and Consulates worldwide, is responsible for nonimmigrant visa (NIV) issuance, including conducting interviews, adjudicating certain types of nonimmigrant petitions, and stamping visa foils into foreign passports, as well as determining policies and processes for visa issuance. The DOS’ Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM) describes the general authority and procedure for nonimmigrant visa issuance, with each U.S. Embassy and Consulate also authorized to exercise discretion over NIV processing operations in accordance with the FAM’s guidelines.

Per the FAM, a foreign national is always eligible to apply for a nonimmigrant visa in the foreign national’s country of citizenship or residence outside the United States. A foreign national may also be eligible to apply for a nonimmigrant visa as a “Third Country National” at the Embassy or Consulate in another country, at the Embassy or Consulate’s discretion. Visa stamping services are not available within the United States at this time, though DOS has indicated this option is under consideration.

To begin the visa application process, a foreign national must complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) to submit their information to a specific Embassy or Consulate for processing. Next steps will vary depending on the facts surrounding the nonimmigrant visa application.

Nonimmigrant Visa Interview Waivers

The FAM establishes that nonimmigrant visa applicants between the ages of 14 and 79 must undergo a consular interview unless a specific exception allows the interview to be waived. As a general rule, these exceptions most commonly include:

A foreign national renewing a nonimmigrant visa in the same category when the foreign national’s prior visa is either unexpired or expired within the last 48 months.
A foreign national applying for an H-1B, non-blanket L-1, O, P, Q, F, M, or academic J visa when the foreign national has previously been issued a nonimmigrant visa in any category, has never been refused a visa (unless the refusal was overcome or waived), and has no derogatory information or indication of potential visa misuse or ineligibility.
A foreign national applying for a first-time H-1B, non-blanket L-1, O, P, Q, F, M, or academic J visa who is a citizen or national of a Visa Waiver Program country , who has no prior ESTA denials, who has previously traveled to the United States using ESTA, has never been refused a visa (unless the refusal was overcome or waived), and has no derogatory information or indication of potential visa misuse or ineligibility.

Importantly, these exceptions include expanded eligibility criteria introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. These expansions of the visa interview waiver criteria may expire on December 31, 2022, unless expressly extended by DOS. DOS has confirmed that they are currently coordinating with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on an extension of these Interview Waiver provisions through the end of FY 2023 and potentially beyond.

DOS estimates that around 30% of nonimmigrant visa applicants may qualify for an interview waiver and encourages Embassies and Consulates to adopt interview waiver procedures to allow more efficient visa issuance. Eligibility for a visa interview waiver is subject to consular discretion, and apparent eligibility does not entitle a visa applicant to have the interview waived. Consular officers maintain discretion over this process and have the authority to require a nonimmigrant visa applicant to attend an interview, even if the visa applicant is initially invited to renew by mail or document drop-off. Some Embassies and Consulates may also decline to offer interview waivers in any category. Upon completing the DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application, a foreign national who qualifies for a waiver of the nonimmigrant visa interview should be directed to schedule a document drop off appointment or receive other instructions for visa processing. Foreign nationals applying for nonimmigrant visas can also contact the Embassy or Consulate directly with questions about visa interview waiver availability and processing.

Tracking Visa Appointment Availability

DOS publishes Visa Appointment Wait Times for each Embassy and Consulate. As of November 4, 2022, DOS includes estimated wait times for nonimmigrant visa applications requiring interviews and for interview waiver nonimmigrant visa applications across categories, as follows:

DOS has also indicated that it is interested in creating a tool on the Visa Wait Times page to confirm which posts accept Third Country National nonimmigrant visa applications, but no such function is available for now.

Based on recent activity, we understand that appointment availability at Embassies and Consulates worldwide still varies widely, with many posts experiencing long delays. In an October 2022 public engagement session, DOS stated that it has instructed all Embassies and Consular to take applicants from outside of their consular district, including Third Country Nationals, though implementation of this instruction is at each post’s discretion.

Actual appointment availability, including the availability of Third Country National nonimmigrant visa processing, is only accessible once a foreign national visa applicant submits Form DS-160 and pays the related fees. Once a foreign national schedules a visa appointment, they are able to log into the scheduling system to check for earlier appointment availability. Many applicants are successful when checking appointment availability late at night or early in the morning.

Updated Reciprocity Lengthens Visa Validity for Mexican Citizens

Visa stamp validity is based on reciprocity between countries, generally related what that country offers to U.S. citizens applying for the same sort of visa. In most employment-based categories, visa length corresponds to the validity of the underlying nonimmigrant petition approval. However, in some cases, a visa stamp’s validity may be longer or shorter than the petition approval, depending on the Reciprocity Schedule .

Until this year, nonimmigrant employment-based visa validity was a challenge for Mexican citizens in particular. Specifically, Mexican citizens applying for H-1B, TN, and L-1 stamps could only receive a visa stamp valid for up to one year at a time, regardless of the length of their underlying petition approval. This often led to erroneously shortened I-94 records and to international travel complications. Now, DOS has updated visa reciprocity for Mexico , allowing Mexican citizens to apply for visa stamps valid for longer duration, including a 3-year option for H-1B/H-4 stamps and a 4-year option TN/TD and L-1/L-2 stamps. These stamps require payment of a significantly higher fee than the 1-year stamp. In all cases, the Embassy or Consulate may truncate the visa validity to match a petition end date, so you should check with your employer and your attorney to determine the best option in your case.

Tips for Successful Visa Nonimmigrant Visa Processing

All nonimmigrant visa applicants should be sure to check the website of the specific Embassy or Consulate where they will apply for details on interview processes, interview waiver eligibility, and required documents. Additionally, applicants should contact the Embassy or Consulate directly with specific visa application processing questions.

Because appointment availability varies considerably, foreign nationals planning international travel in the coming months should be sure to schedule an appointment before departing the United States. Further, foreign nationals should be prepared for delays, including USCIS delay in providing confirmation of petition approvals to DOS , as well as administrative processing delays.

If you are planning any international travel or have any questions about visa processing options in your case, contact your Parker Gallini attorney for specific advice well before leaving the U.S.

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H-1B Visa Application Process and Requirements

1. what is an h-1b visa and how does it work, 2. what is the h-1b visa application process, 3. what requirements must i meet to apply for an h-1b visa, 4. are there any special requirements for certain types of professionals applying for an h-1b visa, 5. how long does the h-1b visa application process take, 6. what documents are required to apply for an h-1b visa, 7. how much does an h-1b visa cost, 8. how long is an h-1b visa valid for, 9. is there a cap on the number of h-1b visas that can be issued each year, 10. are there any restrictions on how long i can stay in the us on an h-1b visa, 11. can i travel outside the us while on an h-1b visa, 12. how do i extend my stay on an h-1b visa, 13. can my family come to the us with me on an h-1b visa, 14. am i allowed to work while i am on an h-1b visa, 15. can i change jobs while i am on an h-1b visa, 16. is a green card available for me if i am approved for the h-1b visa, 17. can i apply for citizenship while i am on an h-1b visa, 18. how long will it take to get a decision on my application for the h-1b visa, 19. what is the difference between a change of status and a change of employer under the h-1b program, 20. are there any restrictions on where i can work in the us if i am approved for an h-1b visa.

H1B Visa Stamping Documents Checklist – Interview, OFC, Common FAQs

After you get your H1B Visa petition approved by USCIS , your next step would be to go for the H1B visa stamping if you live outside of the US. To apply for the US Visa stamping, you would need to collect and carry a large set of documents for your Visa Interview. In this article, we will look at all of these documents required, including optional documents.

H1B Visa Stamping – High-Level Process

If your H1B Visa petition was applied with USCIS as Consular Processing , you need to get visa stamping done at a US Consular or US Embassy. The process to apply for H1B Visa stamping is pretty much the same as general non-immigrant visa stamping. You can read complete details on these in the article How to apply for US Visa Stamping.

Below are the high-level process steps for H1B Visa Stamping:

Complete DS-160 form – Online Non-Immigrant Visa application form
Pay the US Visa Application Fee of $190 USD online or at a Bank
Book US Visa appointments for Biometrics and in-Peron interview
Attend Biometrics and Visa Interview
Wait for the Consulate’s Decision on your visa stamping status
Collect your Passport with H1B Visa Stamped (if approved)

You need to carry all relevant documents for the in-person interview and some documents for the biometrics appointment. Let’s look at each of these below.

H1B Visa Interview Documents Checklist

Below are the various documents that you would need to carry for the H1B Visa interview. We have divided the documents into sections for easy review.

Required H1B Visa Documents

Below is the mandatory list of documents that you need to carry for an H1B Visa interview

Valid Passport (If you have any old passports, carry them as well)
Online US Visa Application Confirmation (DS-160 Form Submission confirmation).
US Visa Appointment Confirmation with date, time, and location on it.
H1B Visa Approval Notice (I-797 Form)
Copy of H1B LCA
Employment Offer letter from your H1B Sponsor
If you have middle vendors, you should also carry agreements between them and any letter supporting them.
You could also carry SOWs, MSAs, etc.
Latest Resume
Original Educational Certificates for Bachelor’s degree. If you have a Master’s degree or Ph.D. you should carry those degrees’ award documents as well.

If you are working for the H1B Company already, you need the below mandatory documents

Employment Verification Letter from your Company that indicates that you are currently working with them. This is also called an employment confirmation letter or position confirmation letter.
Most recent 3 months’ paystubs/pay slips. It does not hurt to carry 6 months’ pay slips
W-2 Tax Forms related to the company.

If you were living in the US before going for Stamping, you need to carry the below documents

Documentation related to your previous US visa status like a copy of your visa, a copy of your previous approval notices related to your status.
If you were a student on F1 Visa, copy of I-20, OPT EAD Card, Tax forms

Supporting Documents for H1B Visa Stamping

The documents below are not mandatory but are more supporting evidence and information if the Consular officer requests any information.

Copy of I-129 Form that was submitted by your H1B Sponsoring Company
Experience letter from your current company
If you work on an in-house project, copy the project details, and what you do in it.
Last 6 months’ bank statement to indicate that you were working for them.
If it is a small company, company-related tax details, photos, etc.
Official Transcripts in a sealed envelope from your Undergraduate or Master Degree’s at the University
Copy of all your I-20s, if you studied in the US (if you studied in the US)
Social Security Card with your SSN Number on it.
Your Drivers license from the US ( if you have it)
Your State ID from the US (if you have it)
Your US Residence Proof Documents like Utility Bills (if you lived in US)

While many of the above are not really asked, it does not hurt to carry them if you have them. You should always check with your immigration attorney and carry relevant documents.

Small Companies, Startups – H1B Stamping Documents

If you work for very small companies or startups with less than 25 people, the US Consular officers may or may not be able to verify all the documents about the company. In such cases, you can check with your attorney and company and carry some of the supporting documents as listed below.

Comapny’s previous tax filings in Sealed envelope
Company’s Photos with work location
Company’s registration documents and other info in sealed envelope.

H1B Visa Documents Checklist as per Dropbox Appointment Letter

Below are the documents that the consulate typically expects and what they collect from users during H1B Dropbox Stamping submission. It is understood that they expect the same from you during the interview. So, you can carry the below list as in the screenshots below from an actual dropbox appointment letter.

List of Common Documents for H1B Dropbox Submission

H1B Visa Documents for OFC/ VAC/ Biometrics

Below are the documents that you would need for the Biometrics appointment at an Offsite Facilitation Center(OFC) or Visa Application Center (VAC).

US Visa Appointment Confirmation Letter with OFC or Biometrics Appointment info on it.
Latest Passport (original)
DS-160 Confirmation page.
(optional) if you expired passport, good to carry the most recent expired passport for additional verification.

No need to carry any other certificates or documents. They will verify the name on the passport and compare it with the DS-160 info. If any discrepancies, they will ask you to create a new DS-160 form.

Once verification is complete, they will take fingerprints and take your photo as part of capturing biometrics.

Documents for H1B Stamping with Spouse, Children applying H4

If the H1B applicant is married and has dependents, most of the time, spouse and children attend their H4 visa stamping as well along with the H1B applicant. Below is the list of documents that the dependents need to carry for the H4 visa stamping.

Copy of H1B visa Approval Notice (from their spouse)
Original Marriage Certificate
Original Birth Certificate ( for child)
Photos of the wedding (for newly married )
Any other documents that have spouse’s name on them.
Spouse’s Employment Letter

It is always good to carry more documents as you never know what the consular officer may ask and there is no need to scramble at the last minute. You should always check the US Consulate Website in your visiting country if there is any specific checklist that is given by them.

Common FAQs

It is always recommended to carry client letter if you are working at a third-party worksite. If you do not have it for a specific reason such as the client does not give such a letter, have some email copy or some proof that tells that they do not issue client letters. US Consular officers want to validate that you are really employed properly, so it is best to carry all. Not having the client letter will not necessarily result in rejection, but it may lead to administrative processing if the Visa officer is not convinced.

No. The documents listed under supporting documents are really meant as supporting documents and not mandatory. You are fine if you do not have them or are not able to get them on time. Do not worry. It is good to carry them if you can plan and get them on time.

Usually, the H1B Visa stamp validity in the passport would be given according to the validity of the H1B Visa approval notice (I-797 A form). But, there is no mandatory rule that tells that the Consular officer has to give it for the entire duration. It is totally up to them.

Well, most of the time, H1B applicants get multiple entries for visa stamping. But, in certain countries, they may give only a single entry. So, it all depends.

No, usually the H1B visa stamping is not rejected right away unless it is tied to fraud or misrepresentation. The consular officer usually gives a 221g Administrative Processing form with details on what the applicant needs to submit.

No. The documents are required as part of the visa interview. Carrying all documents does not guarantee approval of your H1B Visa stamping. It makes you be prepared for the stamping to answer all the questions.

H-1B Specialty Occupations, DOD Cooperative Research and Development Project Workers, and Fashion Models

ALERT: USCIS has extended the initial registration period for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 H-1B cap. The initial registration period, which opened at noon Eastern on March 6, 2024, and was originally scheduled to run through noon Eastern on March 22, will now run through noon Eastern on March 25, 2024. USCIS is aware of a temporary system outage experienced by some registrants, and is extending the registration period to provide additional time due to this issue. Read more here: USCIS Extends Initial Registration Period for FY 2025 H-1B Cap.

ALERT: On April 1, 2024, USCIS service centers will no longer accept Form I-129 petitions requesting H-1B or H-1B1 (HSC) classification.

We will reject H-1B or H-1B1 (HSC) petitions received at a USCIS service center on or after April 1, 2024. There will be no grace period provided.

Beginning on April 1, 2024, all paper-filed Form I-129 petitions requesting H-1B1 (HSC), or H-1B classification, including those with a concurrent Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, and those with concurrently filed Form I-539 and/or Form I-765, must be filed at a USCIS lockbox facility. If you are filing Form I-129 alone or with Form I-907, you may also file online. On March 25, USCIS launched online filing of Form I-129 and associated Form I-907 for non-cap H-1B petitions. On April 1, USCIS will begin accepting online filing for H-1B cap petitions and associated Forms I-907 for petitioners whose registrations have been selected. You can find the lockbox filing addresses for paper filed forms on our Form I-129 Direct Filing Addresses page.

ALERT: On March 25, USCIS launched online filing of Form I-129 and associated Form I-907 for non-cap H-1B petitions. On April 1, USCIS will begin accepting online filing for H-1B cap petitions and associated Forms I-907 for petitioners whose registrations have been selected.

On Feb. 28, 2024, we launched new USCIS organizational accounts that will allow multiple people within a company and their legal representatives to collaborate and prepare H-1B registrations, H-1B petitions, and associated requests for premium processing. 

Petitioners will continue to have the option of filing a paper Form I-129 H-1B petition and any associated Form I-907 if they prefer. However, during the initial launch of organizational accounts, users will not be able to link paper-filed Forms I-129 and I-907 to their online accounts.

Alert : H-1B petitions can be portable from one job to another. For information about petitioning for a beneficiary in valid H-1B nonimmigrant status and when they may begin new H-1B employment, regardless of whether they are currently employed or have been terminated, click on “Changing Employers or Employment Terms with the Same Employer (Portability)” below. For more information, including options for H-1B beneficiaries who have been terminated, visit Options for Nonimmigrant Workers Following Termination of Employment .

This nonimmigrant classification applies to people who wish to perform services in a specialty occupation, services of exceptional merit and ability relating to a Department of Defense (DOD) cooperative research and development project, or services as a fashion model of distinguished merit or ability.

*For more information, see 8 CFR §214.2(h)(4)(iii)(A). “Normally,” “common,” and “usually” are interpreted based on their plain language, dictionary definitions. They are not interpreted to mean “always.”

**For more information see 8 CFR §214.2(h)(4)(iii)(C).

Some professions require an H-1B beneficiary to hold a state or local license authorizing the beneficiary to fully practice the specialty occupation.

If an occupation in the state of intended employment requires such a license, an H-1B beneficiary seeking classification in that occupation generally must have that license before the petition is approved, rather than at the time of filing the petition. See 8 CFR 214.2(h)(4)(v)(A)–(B) . When a license is required, but there is no evidence of the beneficiary holding one, USCIS will generally issue a request for evidence of the required license.

In 2020, we implemented an electronic registration process for the H-1B cap. A cap-subject H-1B petition will not be considered to be properly filed unless it is based on a valid, selected registration for the same beneficiary and the appropriate fiscal year, unless the registration requirement is suspended. For more information about the H-1B registration process, visit our H-1B Electronic Registration Process webpage.

Step 1: (only required for specialty occupation and fashion model petitions): Employer/Agent Submits LCA to DOL for Certification. The employer/agent must apply for and receive DOL certification of an LCA. For further information regarding LCA requirements and DOL's process, see the Foreign Labor Certification, Department of Labor page.

Step 2: Employer/Agent Submits Completed Form I-129 to USCIS. The employer/agent should file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, at the correct location or online. Please see our I-129 Direct Filing Chart page. The DOL-certified LCA should be submitted with the Form I-129 (only for specialty occupation and fashion models). See the instructions to the Form I-129 (PDF, 549.11 KB) for additional filing requirements.

Step 3: Prospective Workers Outside the United States Apply for Visa and/or Admission. Once the Form I-129 petition has been approved, the prospective H-1B worker who is outside the United States may apply with the U.S. Department of State (DOS) at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad for an H-1B visa (if a visa is required). Regardless of whether a visa is required, the prospective H-1B worker must then apply to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for admission to the United States in H-1B classification.

Prospective specialty occupation and distinguished fashion model employers/agents must obtain a certification of an LCA from the DOL. This application includes certain attestations, a violation of which can result in fines, bars on sponsoring nonimmigrant or immigrant petitions, and other sanctions to the employer/agent. The application requires the employer/agent to attest that it will comply with the following labor requirements:

The employer/agent will pay the H-1B worker a wage which is no less than the wage paid to similarly qualified workers or, if greater, the prevailing wage for the position in the geographic area in which the H-1B worker will be working.
The employer/agent will provide working conditions that will not adversely affect other similarly employed workers.
At the time of the labor condition application there is no strike or lockout at the place of employment.
Notice of the filing of the labor condition application with the DOL has been given to the union bargaining representative or has been posted at the place of employment.

As an H-1B specialty occupation worker or fashion model, you may be admitted for a period of up to 3 years. Your time period may be extended, but generally cannot go beyond a total of 6 years, though some exceptions do apply under sections 104(c) and 106(a) of the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act (AC21), 8 CFR 214.2(h)(13)(iii)(D) and (E).

Under 8 CFR 214.2(h)(13)(iii)(D), if you are in H-1B status or previously held H-1B status, you may be eligible for an H-1B extension beyond the sixth year if at least 365 days have elapsed since a labor certification was filed with the Department of Labor on your behalf (if such certification is required) or an immigrant visa petition was filed with USCIS on your behalf. There is a limit on this exemption under 8 CFR 214.2(h)(13)(iii)(D)(10), which states that a beneficiary is ineligible for this exemption if they fail to file an adjustment of status application or apply for an immigrant visa within 1 year of an immigrant visa being authorized for issuance, but that USCIS may excuse a failure to file in its discretion if the worker establishes that the failure to apply was due to circumstances beyond their control. When considering whether to excuse a worker’s failure to timely file within 1 year, USCIS will look at the totality of the circumstances, which may include whether there was a change of employment, whether the change of employment was voluntary, when and why the employment with the original employer ended, and what steps the individual and new employer took following the change of employment to file an adjustment of status application or apply for an immigrant visa. We may excuse a failure to timely file in cases of both voluntary and involuntary change of employment when considering the totality of the circumstance.

Under 8 CFR 214.2(h)(13)(iii)(E), if you are in H-1B status or previously held H-1B status, you may be eligible for an H-1B extension beyond the sixth year if you are the beneficiary of an approved immigrant visa petition for classification under section 203(b)(1), (2), or (3) of the INA and are eligible to be granted that immigrant status but for application of the per country or worldwide limitations on immigrant visas. The petitioner must demonstrate such visa unavailability as of the date the H-1B petition is filed with USCIS.

Your employer will be liable for the reasonable costs of your return transportation if your employer terminates your employment before the end of your period of authorized stay. Your employer is not responsible for the costs of your return transportation if you voluntarily resign from your position.

The H-1B classification has an annual numerical limit (cap) of 65,000 new statuses/visas each fiscal year. An additional 20,000 petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries with a master’s degree or higher from a U.S. institution of higher education are exempt from the cap. Additionally, H-1B workers who are petitioned for or employed at an institution of higher education or its affiliated or related nonprofit entities, a nonprofit research organization, or a government research organization, are not subject to this numerical cap.

For further information about the numerical cap, see our H-1B Cap Season page .

Changing Employers

When can I begin working for a new H-1B employer if I change employers?

If you are changing H-1B employers, you may begin working for the new employer as soon as they properly file a non-frivolous Form I-129 petition on your behalf, or as of the requested start date on that petition, whichever is later.
To be eligible for portability, you must not have been employed without authorization from the time of your last admission into the United States, and your new employer must properly file a new, non-frivolous petition before your H-1B period of authorized stay expires.

Will I still have employment authorization if I change employers?

If you are eligible for H-1B portability, your employment is authorized until USCIS has made a decision on the Form I-129.
If the new I-129 petition is approved, you may continue working for the new employer for the period of time indicated on the new petition approval.
If the new petition is denied, you may continue working for your previous employer if your prior period of authorized employment is still valid, but your authorization to work based on portability ceases upon denial of the petition.
If you are laid off, fired, quit, or otherwise cease employment with your previous employer, you may have up to 60 consecutive days or until the end of your authorized validity period, whichever is shorter, to find new employment, change status, or depart the country.

Can I move from cap-exempt to cap-subject employment?

If you are moving from cap-exempt to cap-subject employment, your new employer’s H‑1B petition will be subject to the H-1B cap . If subject to the cap, your new employer must first submit an electronic registration when registration period opens. This is typically in March.
If more unique beneficiaries are registered than projected as needed to meet the cap for a given fiscal year, unique beneficiaries of properly submitted registrations will be randomly selected. All registrants of selected beneficiaries will be notified of selection and selection notices will be uploaded to their account informing them that they may file a petition for the beneficiary named in the selection notice during the applicable filing period. H-1B cap petitions must have a start date of Oct. 1 (or later) of the applicable fiscal year and may not be filed more than 6 months before the requested start date on the petition.
If you are currently employed in a cap-exempt position, you may engage in concurrent employment in a cap-subject position as long as you will continue to be employed in the cap-exempt position. You may begin working concurrently for the cap-subject employer as soon as they properly file a non-frivolous Form I-129 petition on your behalf, or as of the requested start date on that petition, whichever is later. As long as you continue your cap-exempt employment, were previously counted toward the cap, or otherwise remain cap exempt, you will not become subject to the H-1B cap again during the same H-1B validity period.

Changing Employment Terms with the Same Employer

What if I want to start new employment or change employment terms with my current employer?

Form I-129 is also used to request new employment or a change of employment with the same employer.
If your current H-1B employer properly files a non-frivolous Form I-129 requesting new employment or a change of employment on your behalf, you are authorized to work according to the terms of the new or changed employment once that petition is filed, or as of the requested start date on that petition, whichever is later.

Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age may seek admission in the H-4 nonimmigrant classification. Certain H-4 dependent spouses of H-1B nonimmigrants can file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, as long as the H-1B nonimmigrant has already started the process of seeking employment-based lawful permanent resident status. Please visit our Employment Authorization for Certain H-4 Dependent Spouses page to learn more.

H-1B Cap Season
Employment Authorization for Certain H-4 Dependent Spouses
Fee Increase for Certain H-1B and L-1 Petitions (Public Law 114-113)
Combating Fraud and Abuse in the H-1B Visa Program
H-1B Electronic Registration Process
Questions about Same or Similar Occupational Classifications Under the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-first Century Act of 2000 (AC21)
Frequently Asked Questions about Part 6 of Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker
USCIS Actions to Support Adjustment of Status Applicants Who are in H-1B Status in the United States

Update April 12, 2024

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Domestic Renewal of H-1B Nonimmigrant Visas for Certain Applicants

The Department of State has announced a pilot program to resume domestic visa renewals for qualified H-1B nonimmigrant visa applicants who meet certain requirements.

The pilot program will accept applications from January 29, 2024, through April 1, 2024, or when all application slots are filled, whichever comes first.
Participation in the pilot program is voluntary.
Individuals who do not meet the requirements for participation in the pilot program, or those who choose not to participate in the pilot program, may continue to apply for visa renewal at a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas.

There are several steps to apply for this pilot program:

Select the country where your most recent H-1B visa was issued (Note: this initial pilot is limited to renewal of visas issued in India and Canada). Then follow the online navigator tool to assess your qualifications for participation in the pilot.
If you meet the requirements for participation, follow the instructions in the portal to complete and submit an Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (form DS-160).
Use the online portal to pay the required, non-refundable, non-transferrable Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) application processing fee of $205.00.
Follow the instructions on the portal to mail your passport and other required documents for processing.

The Department will make available a maximum of 20,000 application slots during this limited pilot program: Approximately 2,000 per week for applicants whose most recent H-1B visa was issued by U.S. Mission Canada with an issuance date of January 1, 2020 through April 1, 2023, and approximately 2,000 per week for applicants whose most recent H-1B was issued by U.S. Mission India with an issuance date of February 1, 2021, through September 30, 2021.

Application slots will be released on the following entry period dates:

January 29, 2024
February 5, 2024
February 12, 2024
February 19, 2024
February 26, 2024

Applicants will only be able to apply through the portal linked below during the specified dates above. Applications will be handled on a first-received, first-processed basis until the weekly limit is reached. Applicants who are unable to apply on one application date may reattempt application on any of the remaining application dates during the entry period. The application period will close when all application slots are filled or on April 1, 2024, whichever comes first.

After you have determined your eligibility for the domestic renewal program, you must fill out your DS-160, the application for a nonimmigrant visa. Follow the link below and in the drop-down menu under “Select a location where you will be applying for this visa” you may select “U.S. - DOMESTIC” to begin your application.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Which applicants qualify for participation in the pilot program.

Participation in the pilot program will be limited to applicants who(se):

Seek to renew an H-1B nonimmigrant visa only (no other visa classifications, including H-4 visas for dependent spouses and children, will be processed through this pilot program);
Prior H-1B visa that is being renewed was issued by U.S. Mission Canada with an issuance date of January 1, 2020, through April 1, 2023; or by U.S. Mission India, with an issuance date of February 1, 2021, through September 30, 2021;
Are not subject to a nonimmigrant visa issuance fee (commonly referred to as a “reciprocity fee”);
Are eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview requirement;
Have submitted ten fingerprints to the Department in connection with a previous visa application;
Prior visa does not include a “clearance received” annotation;
Do not have a visa ineligibility that would require a waiver prior to visa issuance;
Were most recently admitted to the United States in H-1B status;
Are currently maintaining H-1B status in the United States;
Have an approved and unexpired H-1B petition;
Period of authorized admission in H-1B status has not expired; and
Intend to reenter the United States in H-1B status after a temporary period abroad.

Applicants who do not meet the requirements for participation in the program, including eligibility for a waiver of the in-person interview requirement, are not qualified to apply for, nor be issued, a visa domestically and will be required to apply overseas.

The navigator tool used during the application process is not capable of screening out all unqualified applicants. If you submit an application that fails to satisfy the requirements for pilot participation or an application that is refused based on failure to qualify for an interview waiver or another ineligibility identified during the adjudication process, the MRV application processing fee payment will not be refunded.

What documents and fees are required for a domestic H-1B visa renewal?

You will need to submit the following documents as part of the application process:

A DS-160 barcode sheet for a properly completed and electronically filed form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.
A passport valid for travel to the United States, which is valid for at least six months beyond the visa application date, and contains at least two blank, unmarked pages for placement of a visa foil. RECOMMENDED: A passport containing the most recently issued H-1B visa if the visa is not in the current passport.
Non-refundable and non-transferable $205.00 MRV application processing fee, payable via the online portal after completing the form DS-160.
One photograph (taken within the last six months), which meets the specifications at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html .
Copy of current Form I-797, Notice of Action.
Copy of Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record (available at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home or on the Form I-797).

How do I establish that I am working or living in the United States?

Since the Department will not conduct in-person visa interviews domestically, applicants seeking to renew their visa in the United States through the pilot must be eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview requirement under the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) section 222(h). Based on this statutory requirement, applicants for domestic visa renewal must be resident in the United States. In assessing this requirement, the Department will review certain information including your “home address” provided on the DS-160, “current residential U.S. address” on your Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, length of employment in the United States and your arrival and departure records. You are not required to submit any evidence establishing residence in the United States with your visa application. If needed, the Department may request such evidence following a review of your application. “Residence” in this context does not mean “lawful permanent resident” (or LPR).

How do I show that I intend to reenter the United States in H-1B status after a temporary period abroad?

To qualify for participation in the pilot program, you must intend to reenter the United States in H-1B status after a temporary period abroad. You are not required to submit evidence of this intent with your application; however, the Department may request additional evidence of intent on a case-specific basis.

PROCESSING: LOGISTICS & FEES

How long will it take to process my application.

We estimate the processing time will take six to eight weeks from the date the applicant’s passport and other required documents are received by the Department.

What if I must withdraw my application before a decision is made, or I need my passport for emergency travel before my application has been processed?

You may withdraw your application and request your passport back via the online portal. If you withdraw your visa application while it is pending adjudication, it will be refused under INA Section 221(g). This would include situations where an applicant requests a return of the submitted passport for emergency travel prior to our office reviewing and processing the application. The MRV fee will not be refunded.

May I pay a fee to expedite my application?

No. The Department will not expedite domestic visa renewal applications. All applications will be handled on a strict first-received, first-processed basis. If you have an urgent need to travel, you may choose to apply for your visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas.

REFUSALS & INELIGIBILITIES

How can i tell if my application would require payment of a nonimmigrant visa issuance fee (commonly referred to as a “reciprocity fee”), resulting in a return of my application without an adjudication taking place.

The Department is unable to accept reciprocity fees domestically. Nationals from countries with a reciprocity fee may not participate in the pilot.

To view current reciprocity information, go to the U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country information on the following web page: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/Visa-Reciprocity-and-Civil-Documents-by-Country.html

What will happen if my application is returned without adjudication?

The Department will return the below out-of-scope applications without adjudication and without a refund of the Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fee:

Any application that seeks to renew a visa other than an H-1B visa.
Any application where the prior H-1B visa was not issued by Mission Canada with an issuance date from January 1, 2020 through April 1, 2023; or by Mission India with an issuance date of February 1, 2021 through September 30, 2021.
Any application which is subject to a nonimmigrant visa issuance fee (reciprocity fee).
Any application where the prior visa was issued with a “clearance received” annotation.

If your case is returned without an adjudication, you will not be issued a visa domestically. You may choose to file a new application with a new MRV fee at a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas.

What will happen if my application is refused?

Participation in the pilot program is voluntary. If you are found to be ineligible for a waiver of the in-person interview requirement, or otherwise fail to satisfy the requirements for domestic visa renewal, your application will be refused under INA section 221(g) or returned unadjudicated. If you are not issued a visa through this pilot program, you may choose to file a new application with a new MRV fee at a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas. The Department cannot transfer your application to an overseas embassy or consulate.

How many applications will be accepted during the pilot program?

The Department will release a total of approximately 20,000 application slots during the pilot program. Each release will consist of approximately 2,000 application slots released per week for applicants whose most recent H-1B visa was issued by U.S. Mission Canada, and approximately 2,000 application slots per week for applicants whose most recent H-1B visa was issued by U.S. Mission India (for a total of approximately 4,000 application slots during each week of the pilot program).

Applications will be handled on a first-received, first-processed basis until the 2,000 maximum weekly limit for each participating Mission is reached. Applicants who are unable to apply on one application date may reattempt application on any of the remaining application dates during the entry period. The application period will close when all application slots are filled or on April 1, 2024, whichever comes first.

How do I know if I am eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview requirement?

For purposes of the domestic renewal pilot, most applicants are generally eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview requirement if you seek to renew your H-1B visa within the pilot program eligibility dates, and you reside in the United States, with certain exceptions set out in the law, including those specified below.

In particular, you are not eligible for interview waiver, and cannot participate in the pilot, if you fall within one or more of the below categories:

You do not reside in the United States.
You have ever been previously refused a visa, unless the refusal was subsequently overcome (and you were subsequently issued a visa) or you obtained a waiver of ineligibility.
You have an apparent visa ineligibility or potential visa ineligibility.
You are a national (including a dual national) of certain countries, including those designated by the Secretary of State as a state sponsor of terrorism.
Interview waivers are discretionary. Adjudicators will consider an applicant’s individual circumstances and may require an in-person interview on a case-by-case basis.

For the latest updated on waivers of the interview requirement, visit: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/important-update-on-waivers-of-the-interview-requirement-for-certaing-nonimmigrant-visa-applicants.html

How do I know if I have an apparent ineligibility or potential ineligibility that might make me ineligible for an interview waiver?

National security is our top priority. Before issuing any visa, we ensure that every prospective traveler is subject to extensive security screening. If it appears that an applicant may have been involved in an activity of a national security concern, might have a visa ineligibility, or requires further review, that applicant is ineligible for an interview waiver.

In some cases, an applicant may be ineligible for interview waiver for reasons unknown to the applicant. In all cases, those reasons will be tied to a specific statutory ground, but the circumstances triggering the ineligibility may not be known to the applicant at the time of application. The situations which make a visa applicant ineligible for a visa, called visa ineligibilities, are found in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), and other immigration laws. More information about visa ineligibilities can be found here:

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/waivers.html

If an adjudicator determines that an applicant requires an in-person interview, why does an applicant need to make a new application overseas and pay a second application fee?

The Department incurs costs to review visa applications and to determine if an applicant requires an in-person interview. Applications submitted under this pilot program will be reviewed, and the fee submitted only covers the cost of processing the application for this program. This fee is non-refundable and non-transferrable regardless of whether you are issued a visa.

If my application for domestic renewal is refused or returned, can my application be transferred overseas for continued processing?

No. The Department cannot transfer applications to an overseas post under any circumstances. If your application is refused or returned and you want to pursue a new visa application, you may do so by applying overseas at a U.S. embassy or consulate and submitting a new application and a new MRV fee.

Could a denial of my H-1B renewal application impact my ESTA?

Yes. For the purposes of future visa applications, including ESTA applications required for travel under the Visa Waiver Program, a refusal under INA section 221(g) of a domestic visa renewal application constitutes a denial of a visa. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers with prior visa denials should mark “yes” for question F on the ESTA application form, “Have you ever been denied a U.S. visa or entry into the U.S. or had a U.S. visa canceled?”

What if I meet the program requirements but I changed employers while in the United States? Can I still participate in the program?

If you are currently maintaining H-1B status in the United States and meet the other requirements for participation, you may still be qualified to participate in the pilot program.

How do my family members with H-4 visas apply?

The Department is unable to process H-4 visas during the pilot program. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age may seek to renew their H-4 visas overseas at a U.S. embassy or consulate where they have a residence or are physically present.

How do I check the status of my application?

Applicants may check the status of their application at: https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?App=NIV . The Department will not provide non-automated status reports on individual applications, other than the return of the application, issuance of the visa, or refusal. The average processing time for a domestic visa renewal application is expected to be six to eight weeks from the time a passport and other required documents are received by the Department.

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How to Travel Internationally on an H-1B Visa

The h-1b visa is a program that allows us companies to hire specialized workers from other countries. once in the us, are h-1b visa holders allowed to return to their home country or travel outside the us at all.

This article will explain everything you need to know about traveling internationally on an H-1B visa. From documentation requirements to the various restrictions imposed, we will cover everything in detail so that you can be fully prepared for your trip abroad.

What is an H-1B Visa?

The H-1B visa is a type of non-immigrant visa that allows individuals to temporarily reside in the United States while they engage in certain types of employment. Holders of the H-1B visa can reside in the US for up to 3 years but can get an extension for a maximum of 6 years total.

The H-1B visa is a category of visa reserved for workers in the highly specialized science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, as well as art. These workers can apply for an H-1B visa in order to obtain employment with US companies. The US government issues a certain number of H-1B visas each year. Since these are highly sought-after visas, they are granted through a lottery system.

Only 65,000 H-1B visas are approved each year, with an additional 20,000 for applicants who have a Master’s degree or higher.

So, once you get a coveted H-1B visa, you don’t want to lose it. Does that mean you can’t leave the country on an H-1B visa? Not at all, though there are different regulations for different travel destinations.

Traveling to Mexico or Canada on an H-1B Visa

Perhaps the easiest place to travel on an H-1B visa is to neighboring Canada or Mexico. You can travel to either country for less than 30 days without a valid visa stamp for reentry to the US.

Automatic visa revalidation does require a prior valid visa and a valid I-94 form, which is a record of your travel arrivals and departures.

Circumstances and travel procedures can change at any moment. Even if you’re only traveling to Mexico or Canada, it’s best to check with the US Customs and Border Patrol and US State department agencies before leaving the US.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of leaving your everyday life behind and exploring a new country. Fortunately, there is an option available to H-1B visa holders that also happens to double as a way to explore international travel conveniently.

As an H-1B visa holder, you are permitted to travel outside of the borders of the United States as long as you have valid documentation. This is, of course, a given, but it’s still worth mentioning.

You will need a valid passport if you intend to leave the country. If you don’t have a passport and plan to travel, start the application process as soon as possible. US passport applications are available at your local post office or at a passport expediting company.

In summary, you will need the following documents to travel abroad on an H-1B visa:

● Passport (valid through the end date of Form I-797A Notice of Action)

● Valid visa in H-1B classification (with multiple entry stamp)

● Form I-797A Approval Notice

● I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

● Current letter from your company’s hiring department verifying continued employment. For H-4 dependents, official proof of the relationship to the H-1B principal beneficiary (marriage certificate; birth certificate).

● Return ticket to the US.

There isn’t a hard and fast rule on how long you can stay abroad on an H-1B visa. However, if your visa expires during that time, you won’t be able to reenter the US.

What’s Next?

The H-1B visa is a great way for foreign workers to come to the US to live and work here. It is also easy for these workers to travel internationally and explore the world. While traveling abroad, it is important to document your travels and keep your visa and visa stamp information up-to-date. Holders of the H-1B visa are permitted to stay in the US for up to 6 years and can travel abroad during that time.

The rules for traveling abroad with an H-1B visa seem straightforward. However, guidelines are constantly evolving, and you don’t want to get stuck and unable to return to the US before your H-1B visa is up.

Visa2US has skilled experts on the ins and outs of all things regarding H-1B visas. Experts are ready and able to assist applicants and visa holders on all matters of international travel on an H-2B visa.

If you are in the United States on an H-1B visa, you have access to many great international opportunities and locations without having to give up your job or your visa status. Visa2US can ensure you make the most of your opportunities.

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Entering and staying in the UK
Visas and entry clearance

eVisa rollout begins with immigration documents replaced by 2025

Millions are being invited to switch from physical immigration documents to an eVisa – a key step in creating a modernised and digital border.

Photo: Getty Images

The next stage in the government’s plan to modernise the border and introduce a digital immigration system is under way, as the Home Office moves closer to the implementation of eVisas for nearly all visa holders living in the UK by 2025.

From today (17 April 2024), the Home Office will begin to send emails to all those with physical immigration documents, called biometric residence permits (BRPs), inviting them to create a UK Visas and Immigration ( UKVI ) account to access their eVisa, a digital proof of their immigration status.

Invitations will be issued in phases before the process opens to all BRP holders in summer 2024.

eVisas are central to making the UK safer by reducing the risk of fraud, loss and abuse of physical documents, strengthening border security, and providing a more secure way to prove immigration status. This will pave the way for increased automation to deliver the government’s vision for a contactless border.

It is free and straightforward for customers who hold physical and paper documents to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. Creating a UKVI account will not change, impact or remove customers’ current immigration status or their rights in the UK.

Minister for Legal Migration and the Border, Tom Pursglove MP, said:

We’ve already taken really significant steps to digitally transform the border and immigration system, and this wider rollout of eVisas is a key part of that process. Replacing physical immigration documents with eVisas will ensure firm control over who comes here to live, work or study, strengthening border security and preventing abuse of the immigration system, while delivering cost savings for UK taxpayers.

eVisas bring substantial benefits to the UK public and to visa customers. They are secure, and, unlike a physical document, cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with. They can be accessed anywhere and in real time, putting customers in control of their own data and allowing them to swiftly update the Home Office with new contact or passport details.

An eVisa is securely linked with the holder’s unique biometric information in the same way as a BRP or BRC , to protect against identity fraud.

People checking immigration status will be able to conduct one quick and simple check using a secure online service on GOV.UK. Selected public bodies are already able to access immigration status to determine eligibility for public services automatically through system to system checks.

eVisas are tried and tested, with millions of customers already using them across routes including the EU Settlement Scheme ( EUSS ). Most physical documents, such as biometric residence permits or cards (BRPs or BRCs), are being gradually phased out, with most BRPs expiring at the end of 2024.

This move to eVisas is in line with other countries which have replaced, or are planning to replace, their physical immigration documents with digital forms of immigration status.

Customers who already have an eVisa do not need to do anything as we make this change, but should continue to update their UKVI account with any changes to personal information, such as a new passport or contact details. Customers should continue to carry their in-date physical immigration documents with them when they travel internationally, until they expire.

Physical immigration documents will be gradually phased out by 2025, as we transition to a fully digital border and immigration system for new and existing customers. This will deliver enhanced security and cost savings for the UK public and greater convenience for customers and status checkers.

Customers who already have an eVisa should tell the Home Office about any passport on which they intend to travel using the online Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details service on GOV.UK, if this is not already linked to their account, to avoid delays when travelling.

As part of the wider transformation of the UK border and immigration system, the government has already introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation ( ETA ) scheme. ETA is a digital permission to travel to the UK for those wanting to visit but who do not need a visa. It gives the government greater ability to screen travellers in advance of travel and prevent those who pose a threat from coming here.

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Immigration

How To Find Your Travel Document Number on Visas, Passports, and Green Cards

Looking for your travel document number learn where to find it on various documents like visa, passport, and green card. find travel document number easily with these tips..

Key Takeaways:

Travel Document Number is a unique code used for immigration and travel purposes, helping verify authenticity and track travel history.
Travel Document Number can be found on visas, passports, green cards, and other identification documents.
Keeping your Travel Document Number secure is crucial to preventing fraudulent use of personal information.

Understanding Your Travel Document Number

Navigating through the complexities of immigration documents can often be a daunting task, especially when you’re trying to find specific pieces of information like your Travel Document Number. Whether you’re applying for a visa, going through customs, or renewing your passport, knowing where to locate this vital number is crucial. So, what exactly is a travel document number, and where can you find it on various immigration documents?

What Is a Travel Document Number?

A Travel Document Number is a unique identifier assigned to a range of travel-related documents. It’s a string of digits (and sometimes letters) used to recognize your specific document for immigration or travel purposes. It serves as an identification code that helps immigration and border control authorities verify the authenticity of your document and track your travel history.

Finding Your Travel Document Number on a Visa

If you’re holding a visa, the Travel Document Number is often annotated as a visa number or control number. It’s one of the most critical pieces of information on this document because it can be used to retrieve your visa records.

Where to Look: – On a United States visa, you’ll find the Travel Document Number in the top right corner of the visa, labeled as the “Visa Number.” – For Schengen visas, it is usually located in the bottom right of the visa sticker, referred generally as the “Visa Code.”

Also of Interest:

Complete list of countries, traveling with a passport after a name change: guidance and steps.

Remember that the location might vary depending on the country that has issued the visa, but it will always be clearly marked and distinguishable from other numbers.

Locating the Number on Your Passport

You passport is not just proof of your identity and nationality; it also contains your Travel Document Number, although it is commonly referred to as the “Passport Number.”

Where to Look: – The Travel Document Number can typically be found on the information page of your passport. This is the page with your photograph, name, date of birth, and the document’s expiration date. – Look for a series of numbers (and possibly letters) usually located at the top corner of the information page but can also be found at the bottom in some passports.

The number might be preceded by the country code of the issuing country which can consist of one or three letters.

Spotting the Number on a Green Card

For permanent residents of the United States, the Green Card holds the Travel Document Number, which is crucial for re-entry to the U.S. after travel abroad among other immigration processes.

Where to Look: – On newer versions of the Green Card ( Form I-551), the Travel Document Number is found on the front side and is labeled as the “USCIS #” or “Card #.” – This number is typically 13 characters long, beginning with three letters followed by a series of 10 numbers.

It’s important to differentiate this number from the Alien Registration Number (A-Number) which is also found on your green card and serves a different purpose.

Additional Documents Containing a Travel Document Number

Other travel-related documents like travel refugee documents, advance parole documents, and certain forms of identification may also contain a Travel Document Number.

Where to Look: – For travel refugee documents and advance parole , the number is usually on the top left corner on the face of the document. – For other forms of identification , like driver’s licenses or state IDs for example, the equivalent of a Travel Document Number would be the ID or license number.

Importance of Your Travel Document Number

“The Travel Document Number is a key piece in the puzzle of international travel documentation. It’s a unique fingerprint for your travel document that’s recognized globally. Tracking this number helps immigration control with verification processes at border entry points, as well as aiding travelers in retrieving their records and proving their identities,” quotes an immigration expert.

In administrative processes, you’ll often be required to provide your Travel Document Number. For example, if you’re completing the Form I-90 for a green card renewal, or engaging in travel where re-entry permits or your travel history are necessary for verification.

Keeping Your Travel Document Number Safe

Your Travel Document Number is sensitive personal information that should be kept secure. Just like other personally identifiable information, it can be used fraudulently if it falls into the wrong hands. Always be mindful of where and to whom you’re providing your Travel Document Number.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a new immigrant, or simply trying to maintain your immigration status, understanding where to find and how to use your Travel Document Number is vital. Keep this number at your fingertips and, most importantly, secure, as it is as vital to your travel identity as your name and date of birth.

For more information on travel documents and related immigration matters, you can visit the U.S. Department of State’s passport page or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website for resources on visas and green cards. These official sources can provide authoritative guidance on any additional questions you may have regarding your immigration documents and their numbers.

Still Got Questions? Read Below to Know More

If i lose my passport while abroad, how do i recover my travel document number to get emergency travel documents.

If you lose your passport while abroad, the process to recover your Travel Document Number and obtain emergency travel documents typically involves the following steps:

Report the Loss : Immediately report your lost passport to the local police and obtain a police report. This will be necessary when applying for a replacement or emergency travel document.
Locate the Nearest Embassy or Consulate : Contact your country’s embassy or consulate in the country you are in. They can help you with the next steps and inform you about the requirements for obtaining emergency travel documents.
Provide Necessary Information : When you contact your embassy or consulate, they may ask for any information you have regarding your lost passport and Travel Document Number. If you don’t remember the number, they might be able to look it up using your personal details, such as your full name, date of birth, and place of birth.

It is a good practice to keep a photocopy or digital scan of your passport separate from the physical passport itself when traveling abroad. This can help expedite the process, as it may contain your Travel Document Number and other identifying information. If you don’t have these details, embassy or consulate staff may still be able to assist you by accessing their records.

“Embassies and consulates can issue an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) to help you return home if your passport is lost or stolen. To apply for an ETD, you will usually be required to prove your identity, complete an application form, and provide a passport photo.”

For country-specific information and procedures, visit the official government or embassy website of your home country. Here are some examples for reference: – United States: U.S. Department of State – Passports – United Kingdom: GOV.UK – Overseas British passport applications – Canada: Government of Canada – Lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found passports

Remember, always keep the embassy contact details handy, as they are your primary resource for assistance in such situations.

What should I do if there’s a typo in the Travel Document Number on my immigration paperwork?

If you have discovered a typo in the Travel Document Number on your immigration paperwork, it is important to address the error promptly to avoid any potential issues with your travel or immigration process. Here’s what you should do:

Contact the Issuing Authority : As soon as you notice the typo, reach out to the issuing authority of the document. This might be the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) if you are dealing with U.S. immigration paperwork, or the equivalent authority in another country if the mistake is on documentation for a different destination. You can contact USCIS by phone at their National Customer Service Center (1-800-375-5283) or use the appropriate contact method for other countries’ immigration services.

Submit a Request for Correction : You may need to fill out a form or submit a written request for the document to be corrected. For example, for USCIS, use the “Typographical Error” option on the e-Request page to report errors on a notice you received. If your request pertains to a visa or a document related to entry into another country, follow their specific procedures for document corrections.

Provide Supporting Documentation : Include evidence of the correct information when you request the correction. This might be a copy of your passport, birth certificate, or other official documentation that clearly shows the accurate Travel Document Number.

Here is a link to the USCIS e-Request service, where you can report a typographical error:

USCIS e-Request Service

Remember, it’s crucial to provide detailed information regarding the typo and to act quickly to ensure your immigration process remains on track. If you’re not sure about the process or require further assistance, consider seeking help from an immigration lawyer or an accredited representative.

Will my Travel Document Number change if I renew my visa or is it assigned for life?

When you renew your visa, you may receive a new Travel Document Number, also known as the passport number. This number is not assigned for life and typically changes each time you get a new passport. The Travel Document Number is unique to each passport, so when your passport is renewed or replaced due to expiration, damage, or loss, the issuing authority will give you a passport with a new number.

Here’s what you need to know about Travel Document Numbers:

Visa Stickers: If you have a visa sticker in your passport, the Travel Document Number on your visa will match your current passport number. When you renew your visa, the visa sticker will have a new Travel Document Number corresponding to your new passport.
Electronic Visas: For electronic visas, such as the U.S. ESTA, you must update your information with the new passport number if you get a new passport, as your authorization is linked to a specific passport number.

Keep in mind that visas and passports are different documents. A visa is a stamp or sticker placed in your passport or an electronic authorization tied to your passport number, granting you permission to enter, leave, or stay in a particular country for a specified period. A passport is an official travel document issued by your country that certifies your identity and nationality.

For the most accurate and updated information, you should check with the official immigration website of the country you are planning to visit. For U.S. visas and travel documents, the U.S. Department of State’s website is a reliable resource: U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs .

In summary, your Travel Document Number will change when you renew your passport and, consequently, when you renew your visa to match the new passport. Always ensure your travel documents are up-to-date before traveling.

Can family members share the same Travel Document Number if they’re traveling together?

Typically, family members cannot share the same Travel Document Number when traveling together as each traveler needs to have a unique document issued in their own name. A Travel Document Number is a unique identifier for an individual’s travel document, such as a passport, which is required to track and manage their crossings and stays in different countries.

For example, in the United States, each traveler must present their own passport or other approved travel document when entering or exiting the country. This number is used in various forms and applications, including visa applications and arrival/departure records (Form I-94).

The U.S. Department of State states that “A passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States… is required for U.S. visas.”

However, children listed on a parent’s passport may be an exception in some circumstances, depending on the country’s rules from which the passport is issued, as some countries allow children to be included on a parent’s passport. But even in those cases, the parent and the child listed would still be seen as holding distinct travel document numbers for purposes of identification and processing by authorities.

For the most current and authoritative information regarding travel documents and procedures, always refer to official government websites, such as the U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) or the official immigration service of your destination country.

For a job application, they’re asking for identification numbers; is it safe to give my employer my Travel Document Number from my visa?

When filling out a job application, it’s not uncommon for employers to request identification numbers to verify your eligibility to work in the country. However, it’s important to distinguish between different types of identification numbers and understand what’s safe to provide.

Your Travel Document Number , which is found on your visa, is used primarily for entry and exit tracking by immigration services and isn’t usually needed for domestic purposes, such as a job application. Instead, employers typically ask for your Social Security number (SSN) or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) number if you are authorized to work in the country but do not have an SSN. Here’s what you should generally provide: – For U.S. citizens or permanent residents : Social Security number. – For non-citizens who are authorized to work : EAD number, which comes from the employment authorization document provided by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Or your Visa Sponsorship employment details if applicable.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security provides a list of acceptable documents for proving eligibility to work in the I-9 form found here . Before providing any personal information, make sure you are sharing it through secure channels and with a verified employer. As a best practice, do not share more personal information than necessary and certainly not until you are confident with the legitimacy of the request.

If you have any doubts, you can always ask the employer why they need the travel document number and how they plan to use it to ensure it is for a legitimate purpose or check with an immigration attorney or the immigration authority in the country where you are applying for a job. For questions related to U.S. immigration and employment, USCIS is the authoritative source for information and can be found at USCIS.gov .

Learn Today:

Immigration Documents: Official documents that are required for immigration purposes such as visas, passports, green cards, travel refugee documents, advance parole documents, and forms of identification.

Travel Document Number: A unique identifier assigned to various travel-related documents used for immigration or travel purposes. It helps immigration and border control authorities verify the authenticity of the document and track the traveler’s travel history. The Travel Document Number may also be referred to as a visa number, control number, passport number, USCIS #, or Card # depending on the document.

Visa Number: The Travel Document Number on a visa. It is used to retrieve visa records and is located in different places depending on the country that issued the visa.

Information Page: The page in a passport that contains the traveler’s photograph, name, date of birth, and passport expiration date. The Travel Document Number can usually be found on this page.

Passport Number: The Travel Document Number on a passport. It is used to identify the passport holder and can be found on the information page of the passport.

Green Card: A permanent resident card issued by the United States that grants an individual the right to live and work in the country. The Green Card contains a Travel Document Number, labeled as the “USCIS #” or “Card #,” which is important for various immigration processes.

Alien Registration Number (A-Number): A unique identifier assigned to individuals who are immigrants in the United States. It is found on the Green Card but serves a different purpose than the Travel Document Number.

Advance Parole: A document that allows certain individuals who are in the process of adjusting their immigration status to travel outside the United States and return.

Driver’s License/ID Number: The equivalent of a Travel Document Number on other forms of identification such as driver’s licenses or state IDs. It is used to identify the individual and can vary depending on the issuing authority.

Sensitive Personal Information: Personal information that, if obtained by unauthorized individuals, could be used for fraudulent purposes or identity theft.

Form I-90: The application form used to renew or replace a Green Card.

Re-Entry Permit: A document that allows a permanent resident of the United States to travel abroad for an extended period without abandoning their permanent resident status.

Verification: The process of confirming the authenticity and validity of a document or information provided.

U.S. Department of State: The federal department in the United States responsible for handling foreign affairs and issuing travel documents such as passports.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): The agency within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that oversees immigration and naturalization in the United States. They handle visa applications, green cards, and other immigration-related matters.

Resources: Official sources of information, websites, or organizations that provide authoritative guidance and information on specific topics. In the context of immigration, resources can include the U.S. Department of State’s passport page and the USCIS website.

So, there you have it! Understanding your Travel Document Number doesn’t have to be a headache. From visas to passports and green cards, knowing where to find this crucial identifier is key. And if you want to dive deeper into the world of immigration and travel documents, be sure to check out visaverge.com for more helpful tips and information. Happy travels!

This Article in a Nutshell:

Understanding your Travel Document Number is crucial when navigating immigration documents. It’s a unique identifier used for travel purposes. On visas, it may be labeled as a visa number or control number. On passports, it’s commonly referred to as the passport number. Green cards also have a Travel Document Number. Keep it secure!

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H1B Port of Entry Documents Checklist, Process
Original Passport with valid H1B Visa stamp issued by Consulate on it. H1B Visa Approval notice from USCIS ( Form I-797A Notice of Action) Copy of H1B Labor Condition Application (LCA) Job offer letter given by the H1B sponsoring company. Employee agreement that you may have signed with your H1B Sponsoring company.
H-1B Travel Documents
Additional documents may be required, check with embassy. These may include evidence of meeting required qualifications etc. If your visa has expired or you have changed your status to H-1B within the U.S. : Obtain an H-1B visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate before returning to the U.S. Present the above-mentioned travel documents to the consulate.
Travel & U.S. Re-entry in H-1B
Present the following documents to U.S. Customs and Border Protection upon re-entry: Passport (valid through the end date of Form I-797 Notice of Approval) Valid visa in H-1B classification (with multiple entry stamp) Form I-797 Notice of Approval. At the port of entry, your passport will be date stamped and returned to you.
Travel on the H-1B
When traveling on the H-1B visa, you will require the following documentation to reenter the U.S.: Valid H-1B visa stamp in your passport, obtained from a U.S. Consulate abroad. Original H-1B approval notice (I-797) from UConn. Current letter from your hiring department verifying continued employment. a.
Travel Information for H-1B Visa Holders
Keep copies of travel documents (flight itineraries, passport stamps, I-94 Forms, etc.) for international travel. These documents may be helpful or necessary in the future; for example, in the case of reclaiming time spent outside the U.S. so you can utilize a full 6 years of H-1B status. ISSS is a unit of the Global Programs and Strategy ...
Travel in H-1B Status
When you travel outside of the U.S., you should take the following with you: A copy of the H-1B petition/Form I-129 as it was submitted to USCIS; The original I-797 approval notice; Your valid passport; Proof that you are maintaining H-1B status (3 recent paystubs) You can also request a "Travel Letter" from our office.
Travel Documents
Travel Documents. If you wish to return to the United States lawfully after traveling outside the United States, you generally must have a: Valid entry document, such as a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or nonimmigrant visa; or. Valid and unexpired travel document. The type of document you need varies depending on your immigration status ...
H-1B Electronic Registration Process
The passport or travel document must be valid at the time of registration. If the passport or travel document expires between when a registration is submitted and when the H-1B petition is filed, the petitioner should enter data from the new, currently valid passport or travel document on Page 3, Part 3 of Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant ...
H-1B Visa Documents: Dropbox Checklist, Filing, & Stamping
The complete H1B application can be submitted online or by mailing the filing to USCIS between April 1, 2024, through June 30, 2024, which is the deadline for submission. ... Also, the Beneficiary's passport or travel document used in Registration should be included in the H-1B petition. Any discrepancy or variance must be explained in the H ...
Traveling in H-1B Status
H-1B Travel Document Checklist. Valid I-797 Approval Notice for Yale University; Copy of all supporting documents issued to you in OISS Connect including the Beneficiary Copy of your petition (forms including the I-129 and the Labor Condition application, along with Support Letter and other petition documents); Copy of paystubs from Yale for the most recent three months
H-1B Program
Overview. The H-1B program applies to employers seeking to hire nonimmigrant aliens as workers in specialty occupations or as fashion models of distinguished merit and ability. A specialty occupation is one that requires the application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and the attainment of at least a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.
International Travel on an H-1B Visa
Now, DOS has updated visa reciprocity for Mexico, allowing Mexican citizens to apply for visa stamps valid for longer duration, including a 3-year option for H-1B/H-4 stamps and a 4-year option TN/TD and L-1/L-2 stamps. These stamps require payment of a significantly higher fee than the 1-year stamp. In all cases, the Embassy or Consulate may ...
H-1B Visa Application Process and Requirements
To apply for an H-1B visa, you will need the following documents: -A valid passport. -Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. -A copy of your most recent degree or diploma. -A letter from your employer specifying the duties and wages of your job.
Valid IDs for H1B Holders: Travel Documents for Domestic Flights in the USA
H1B visa holders traveling domestically in the USA need proper identification, such as a Real ID-compliant license.; Other travel documents, like the Green Card or Employment Authorization Card, may be accepted instead of a passport. Staying informed about ID requirements and following airport protocols can ensure a smooth travel experience for H1B holders.
H1B Visa Stamping Documents Checklist
Below are the high-level process steps for H1B Visa Stamping: Complete DS-160 form - Online Non-Immigrant Visa application form. Pay the US Visa Application Fee of $190 USD online or at a Bank. Book US Visa appointments for Biometrics and in-Peron interview. Attend Biometrics and Visa Interview.
USTravelDocs
Apply for a U.S. Visa. At this website, you can learn about obtaining a visa, as well as applying for your visa. How to apply for your nonimmigrant visa for travel to the United States. What documents, photos and information you need to apply for your visa. How to access visa application forms and instructions.
Documents Required for H1B Visa Application
Mandatory Documents. Valid original passport. You are recommended to have a passport valid for at least six months beyond your interview date. All old passports held. One photograph as per specification. US Visa Application Form DS-160 confirmation page, stamped at the Visa Application Center (VAC). US Visa Application fee payment receipt.
Traveling with H1B Visa and Applying for Green Card: What You Need to Know
For up-to-date information on travel while on an H1B visa during the green card application process, regularly consult authoritative websites like USCIS or the Department of State. These resources provide comprehensive guidance on maintaining visa status, travel documents, and policy updates that could affect your ability to travel.
H-1B Specialty Occupations, DOD Cooperative Research and ...
ALERT: On April 1, 2024, USCIS service centers will no longer accept Form I-129 petitions requesting H-1B or H-1B1 (HSC) classification. We will reject H-1B or H-1B1 (HSC) petitions received at a USCIS service center on or after April 1, 2024. There will be no grace period provided. Beginning on April 1, 2024, all paper-filed Form I-129 petitions requesting H-1B1 (HSC), or H-1B classification ...
Domestic Renewal of H-1B Nonimmigrant Visas for Certain Applicants
The Department will make available a maximum of 20,000 application slots during this limited pilot program: Approximately 2,000 per week for applicants whose most recent H-1B visa was issued by U.S. Mission Canada with an issuance date of January 1, 2020 through April 1, 2023, and approximately 2,000 per week for applicants whose most recent H-1B was issued by U.S. Mission India with an ...
H-1B Dropbox Documents: Everything You Need To Know
When submitting your H1B visa application through the Dropbox method, ensure you have compiled the following essential documents: Passport: Your current valid passport along with all old passports. Photo: A recent passport-sized photograph as per the U.S. visa specifications ( Photography Requirements ).
How to Travel Internationally on an H-1B Visa
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eVisa rollout begins with immigration documents replaced by 2025
Physical immigration documents will be gradually phased out by 2025, as we transition to a fully digital border and immigration system for new and existing customers. This will deliver enhanced ...
How To Find Your Travel Document Number on Visas, Passports, and Green
Where to Look: - On newer versions of the Green Card ( Form I-551), the Travel Document Number is found on the front side and is labeled as the "USCIS #" or "Card #.". - This number is typically 13 characters long, beginning with three letters followed by a series of 10 numbers.