travelling to india on h1b

Travel while H1B Pending (Extension, Transfer, Amendment, COS)

You can travel while H1B is pending with USCIS. H1B Change of Status is abandoned. Transfer, Amendment travel allowed. For re-entry, you need valid H1B.

H1B Travel when Application Pending with USCIS : Travelling while your H1B application is pending approval is risky.

We do not recommend traveling unless you have a real emergency to go out of the USA especially when the Amendment is pending.

We recommend upgrading your H1B application to premium and get approval within 15 days before traveling to be on the absolute safe side.

You can learn quickly by watching this short story about traveling while H1b is pending.

This article will discuss:

H1B Change of Status is Pending Risks

H1b extension is pending uscis decision, h1b amendment is pending result, h1b transfer is pending approval.

You can travel outside the US while H1B change of status is pending.

The risk of travel is that USCIS will automatically abandon your Change of status request.

H1B Change of Status application status at the time of re-entry to USA:

#1 H1B COS APPROVED

You will have to get the hard copy of your approved H1B’s i797 and apply for an H1B visa at the US embassy before you can enter the USA with an H1B visa.

This is because your Change of Status was automatically abandoned by USCIS when you stepped out of the USA.

#2 Change of Status DENIED

If the H1B COS is denied while you are traveling, you can enter the USA only with any other visa you have.

#3 COS to H1B PENDING

You cannot enter using H1B status as the application is still pending. You need some other valid visa to enter the USA.

The underlying H1B application will be approved (if approved) with consular processing meaning that you will have to go to the US embassy to get H1B stamped in your passport and then re-enter the USA.

You can travel outside the USA during pending H1B extension. Make sure you have an existing H1B visa that is valid on the date of your re-entry to avoid trouble.

If your current H1B visa has already expired and you travel, you will NOT be able to enter the USA until your pending H1B extension is approved.

You can travel to India while H1B extension is in progress and visa is still valid for re-entry.

H1B extension status when you re-enter USA:

#1 H1B Extension APPROVED

You will have to get the hard copy of your approved H1B’s i797 and apply for an H1B visa at the US embassy before you can enter the USA with NEWLY approved H1B extended petition.

You can still enter using your OLD valid H1B (if any) but, your i94 will be restricted to old H1B’s expiry date.

This will be a problem as you will have to either file another H1B extension to get a new i94 or travel outside the USA again and get extended H1B stamped in your passport.

#2 Extension is DENIED

If the H1B extension is denied while you are traveling, you can only re-enter the USA if your existing H1B visa is still valid at the time of re-entry.

#3 PENDING Extension

You can still enter using your OLD valid H1B (if any) but, your i94 will be restricted to old H1B’s expiry date once it is approved.

You may not get a new i94 with approval.

You can travel internationally while your H1B amendment is still under process at USCIS but we recommend to NOT travel as re-entry risk is very high.

If your amendment status is approved, denied, or pending while you are outside the USA:

#1 APPROVED Amendment

You will need to get the new physical i797 approval shipped to you to re-enter the USA.

#2 H1B Amendment DENIED

You can re-enter the USA using existing H1B approval and stamp but will have to only work using the non-amended H1B.

#3 Amendment is PENDING

You can re-enter the USA using existing H1B approval and stamp but immigration officer will ask tough questions.

You may be denied entry if you have already started working based on the H1B amendment receipt. This is a very high-risk situation.
USCIS may not issue a new i94 once the amendment is approved as you exited the US.

If you want to enter the US to work with old approved H1B and old work location (not new location), then you are fine.

You should be able to enter the US without any issues.

Can I travel while my H1B transfer is pending: Yes, you can .

But, our suggestion is to avoid travel while H1B transfer is pending if you have already joined (started working) for a new employer-based on H1B receipt.

If you are still working with the current H1B employer and waiting for the H1B transfer result, you can travel.

Make sure your H1B stays valid at the time of your return to USA.

H1B transfer status when you re-enter USA:

#1 H1B Transfer is APPROVED

If you had already joined the new employer before leaving the USA, you are lucky. Get the H1B i797 hard copy mailed to you outside the USA and then get an H1B stamp using DS-160 in US Embassy.

If you do not want to get an H1B stamp, you can still enter the USA using your old employer’s H1B stamp is still valid.
Show the approved H1B transfer i797 at the immigration counter at the port of entry to get i94 with the H1B transfer expiry date.
If the immigration officer entertains your request, you are good.
If not, your i94 will be restricted to old H1B’s expiry date.

This will be a problem as you will have to either file another H1B transfer to get a new i94 or travel outside the USA again and get transferred H1B stamped in your passport.

#2 Change of Employer Transfer DENIED

If the H1B application is denied while you are traveling, you can only re-enter the USA if your existing H1B visa is still valid at the time of re-entry.

If you have moved on to a new employer, based on receipt, your old employer would have already withdrawn your H1B approval.

You will NOT be able to enter the USA if its already revoked.

#3 H1B Transfer PENDING

High risk if you have already started working with a new employer on receipt.

The immigration officer may deny your entry as you do not have the approved H1B for your current new employer.

Is H1B Amendment required? What are material change rules?

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Chances of H1B Approval after Lottery (Denial, RFE Steps)

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Can H1B Work from Home? Is a new LCA or Amendment Required?

I-140 Status Initial Review – Updated Your Name (EB2 to EB3 Premium)

H1B amendment + extension, transfer can work after 240 days

USCIS 240-Day Rule allows stay in US after i94 Expiry with H1B, H4, B1/B2 Extension?

H4 EAD Premium Processing – Not Available Until 2025 (Sad News)

Indian Citizen on H1B Visa: Countries You Can Visit Without Needing A Visa

Last updated: Dec 7, 2022

As I myself have traveled a lot (on an H1B visa in the past) and run this blog on world travel, I have compiled the ultimate checklist for visa-free travel destinations for Indian citizens living in the United States .

There are as many as 18 countries that would allow an Indian citizen to enter their borders with a valid US single or any multiple-entry visa (F1, H1, B1, etc.) for tourism purposes for up to 6 months. Are you happy? Let’s take a look.

Read: How to Overcome Travel Visa Hassles as an Indian

H1B Visa Free Travel for Indians

Photo: Sun, sand, sea / The Art of Travel Partners

Philippines (14 days for holders of either a valid USA, Japanese, Australian, Canadian, Schengen, Singapore or UK visa or permanent resident)
South Korea (30 days, Visa not required for holders of a valid visa for Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand or the USA)
Taiwan (30-day online travel authority is available to the citizens of India with permanent residency or valid visa of Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Schengen countries, UK or USA)
Georgia (90 days for holders of valid visa or residence permit issued by USA, UK, Japan, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, South Korea, Schengen and GCC countries)
Serbia (90 days for valid visa holders and residents of the European Union member states and the USA)
Montenegro (30 days for valid visa holders and residents of the European Union member states and USA)
Albania (Visa not required up to 90 days for holders of a valid multiple-entry visa issued by the USA, UK or a valid multiple-entry C visa issued by a Schengen Member)
Bermuda (90 days for holders of a multiple-entry visa issued by Canada, USA or the United Kingdom and valid for at least 45 days beyond the period of intended stay in Bermuda)
Mexico (Visa not required for any valid USA visa holders to enter Mexico with tourist, transit & business purposes. Legal Permanent Residents of USA, Canada, Japan, United Kingdom & Schengen States do not require visa to enter Mexico with tourist, transit & business purposes)
Dominican Republic (90 days for holders of a valid visa issued by Canada, USA or any EU Member State)
Antigua and Barbuda (Visa on arrival if holding a valid visa or permanent resident card for the USA or Canada)
Belize (No visa required for holders of multiple entry USA Visa or Green Card. Indian nationals are required to pay a repatriation fee of BZD1,200 i.e. ~USD600)
Guatemala (Visa not required for holders of a valid visa issued by Canada, the USA or a Schengen Member State)
Honduras (Visa free entry to holders of a valid visa issued by Canada, the USA or a Schengen Member State)
Nicaragua (90 days (Fee USD20) applicable to holders of a valid visa issued by Canada, USA or a Schengen Member State)
Costa Rica (30 days for holders of a valid visa issued by Canada, Japan, USA, EU or a Schengen Member State)
Panama (Visa requirement waived for holders of a valid visa issued by USA, UK, Canada, Australia or any EU member state, which has been used at least once to enter those countries)
Colombia (Visa not required for Nationals of India holding a valid “C” or “D” visa issued by a Schengen Member State or holding a valid visa issued by the USA)
São Tomé and Príncipe (15 days for holders of a visa issued by the USA or a Schengen area member state)

US Territories

The following US Territories are essentially US soil, so you don’t need any visa as long as you board a direct flight from within the US or any destination to which you have a visa.

Puerto Rico (a US Territory)
US Virgin Islands (a US Territory)
Northern Marianas (a US Territory)
Guam (a US Territory)
American Samoa (a US Territory)

Also, needless to mention, you can also fly and visit:

Hawaiian Islands

Visa Free Travel for Indian Citizens

Photo: The Caribbean Nights / The Art of Travel Partners

Now that we have covered the H1B and F1 visa free travels, did you know your Indian passport lets you travel visa free as well?

As of January 2020, Indian citizens had visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 52 countries and territories.

Nepal (Indian citizens may live and work freely in Nepal under the terms of the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship.) Read: 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship
Mauritius (90 days of visa free stay)
Micronesia (30 days of visa free stay)
Saint Kitts and Nevis (90 days of visa free stay)
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (30 days of visa free stay)
Senegal (90 days of visa free stay)
Trinidad and Tobago (90 days of visa free stay)
Vanuatu (30 days of visa free stay)
Bhutan (As long as you wish to stay. Freedom of movement just like as in Nepal.)
Dominica (180 days of visa free travel)
Ecuador (90 days of visa free travel)
El Salvador (90 days of visa free travel)
Fiji (120 days of visa free travel)
Grenada (90 days of visa free travel)
Haiti (90 days of visa free travel)
Hong Kong (14 days of visa free stay)
Indonesia (30 days of visa free travel but *only from select ports of entry)
Jamaica (As long as you wish to stay, no visa required)
Samoa (60 days of visa free stay. Entry Permit on arrival)
Suriname (90 days of visa free stay. Tourist Card on arrival. Available at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport)
Seychelles (30 days Visitor’s Permit on arrival)
Laos (30 days Visa on arrival)
Madagascar (30 days Visa on arrival)
Malawi (Visa on arrival. They will give you an end date)
Maldives (90 days Visa on arrival)
Marshall Islands (90 days Visa on arrival)
Mauritania (Visa on arrival. On the airport iteself they will give you an end date)
Palau (30 days Visa on arrival)
Saint Lucia (6 weeks Visa on arrival)
Somalia (30 days Visa on arrival, provided an invitation letter issued by the sponsor has been submitted to the Airport Immigration Department at least 2 days before arrival)
Tanzania (Visa on arrival. The immigration authorities will provide you your length of stay.)
Thailand (15 days Visa on arrival. Visa fee of 1000 Thai Baht needs to be paid in Thai currency. Visa on Arrival has to be obtained at First point of Entry/Landing)
Timor-Leste (30 days Visa on arrival)
Togo (7 days Visa on arrival)
Tuvalu (30 days Visa on arrival)
Uganda (Visa on arrival)
Bolivia (90 days Visa on arrival only at La Paz airport. Land entry requires prior Visa which is free of cost)
Burundi (90 days Visa on arrival)
Cambodia (30 days Visa on arrival. 35 USD to be paid in USD)
Cape Verde (Visa on arrival. Generally 30-90 days)
Comoros (Visa on arrival. Generally 30-90 days)
Ethiopia (Visa on arrival. Generally 30-90 days)
Guinea-Bissau (90 days Visa on arrival)
Guyana (30 days Visa on arrival, provided holding a letter of invitation from sponsor or host; and contact details of sponsor, host or hotel; and two passport photos)
Jordan (2 weeks Visa on arrival. Must hold US $1000)

Getting eVisa and Special Permits

Aya Sofia, Turkey

Cuba (30 days Tourist Card (Tarjeta deTurista) which can be extended for another 30 days after arrival. Visitors who booked a package through an airline/travel agency usually receive the card on the plane before landing. The visitors can also buy a Tourist Card upon arrival at the José Martí International Airport in Havana)
Turkey (e-visa can be applied and obtained online)
Singapore (e-visa can be applied and obtained online)
Tunisia (Visa not required for tours organized by a travel agency)
United Arab Emirates (Tourist visa can be obtained online through Emirates and Etihad airlines)
Vietnam (A 30 day visa can be obtained on arrival if prior Online approval has been obtained through a travel agency)
Gabon (e-Visa, holders must arrive via Libreville International Airport)
Sri Lanka (30 days Electronic Travel Authorisation)
Kenya (90 days eVisa)
Myanmar (28 days eVisa, holders must arrive via Yangon, Nay Pyi Taw or Mandalay airports)
Rwanda (e-visa can be applied and obtained online)
Bahrain (14 days e-visa can be applied and obtained online)
Zambia (e-visa can be applied and obtained online)
Zimbabwe (e-visa can be applied and obtained online)
Côte d’Ivoire (90 days eVisa, holders must arrive via Port Bouet Airport)

Do I Need A Visa

As many of you have messaged me or commented that how can you keep track of the changes in future visa status? Well, here is the easy answer. You can bookmark this website. VisaHQ. Just type in your citizenship, where you currently live and where you would want to visit.

VisaHQ – Online Application & check for Visa Requirements

Usually, things do not change for years or decades. And when they do, they are often “very good” or “very bad”. In other words, either your country has made new agreements with another country or a country has severed its ties or changed its visa rules and/or relationships with your country.

Lastly, yes, any valid multiple-entry visa (such as H, B, F, etc) will be qualified.

Note: Always double check the destination country’s immigration website before booking any flights or trips. As many of you have rightly said, things can change and you don’t want to be caught off-guard.

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May 2, 2016 8:27 pm Published by Art Of Travel 2 Comments

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Categorized in: Student Travel , International Travel , Travel FAQ , Travel Visa

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Office of the General Counsel

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.

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

No respite from delays for h-1b visa holders travelling to india.

H-1B visa holders, who travel to India, need to get their passports stamped at the US Embassy in Delhi or consulates in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata or Mumbai, before they travel back to US. This process has been hit by long delays since the pandemic and is causing a lot of difficulties for many Indians who work in the US.

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Stress-free Travel to India with H1B Visa Stamping in the U.S.A

Posted on November, 23, 2022

Whether Deepavali is made a federal holiday in the US or not, if H1B visas are stamped within the country. It will unquestionably be the best post-Diwali present or the best gift for Indians all year. This will make their travel on flights from USA to India stress-free and more relaxed. The US President’s advisory council on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders has unanimously recommended. It is The establishment of a facility for the stamping of H1B visas (AAPI). The primary force behind this suggestion at the White House is San Francisco Bay Area businessman and Indian American Ajay Jain Bhutoria. He is a member of the AAPI National Leadership Council.

Pandemic-Related Stamping Challenges

Since the start of the pandemic, getting an H1B visa stamped in India has remained a nightmare for thousands of Indians. The pandemic closure of the US Embassy and consulates trapped hundreds of thousands of H1B visa holders in India. The issue of Indian appointment delays for US visa renewals is still ongoing. Indian families are impacted by this, which separates them. The waiting period for a visa interview at the US Embassy and Consulates in India is more than 800 days. Since they were unable to return to India without a visa stamping during the pandemic. Many Indians with H1B visas lost their jobs in the US.

US to stamp H1B visas

There is more to the suggestion for the US to stamp H1B visas. The USCIS updated its visa stamping policy some time ago. However, it did not adhere to the recommendations put forth by the Presidential Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Authorities should advise H1B visa holders to receive advance travel documentation to prevent detention at home and visa re-entry issues.

President promises various benefits

The president promises numerous advantages if he approves the stamping of H1B visas in the United States. Given that the US Embassy in India are understaffed and are trying to process the backlog of visa applications. It have accumulated over the past two years of the pandemic, this is an urgent requirement of the hour. Individuals coming to India for unusual reasons, such as a family emergency. They expecting their visa renewal to occur during a specific stay period, face financial and mental challenges. Delays in US visa processing in India force individuals to repeatedly change their flight schedules, incurring a fee difference each time. These accumulated fees can amount to hundreds of dollars.

It is helpful to have an open ticket in this situation. It is less expensive and preferable to keep your flight tickets open rather than reschedule your reservation. Pay the fee difference twice or three times. You can use the open ticket within 6 to 12 months from the original booking date after confirming your return travel date. This will require paying the fare difference and any additional costs as per the airline’s policies. Tripbeam recommends booking open-ended flight tickets to customers without set return dates along with which they can avail of the best travel offers from our website.

However, the most practical solution is H1B visa stamping in the United States. Given its impact on Indian H1B visa holders, including separation, mental health issues, and financial losses. The USA’s H1B visa stamping process may also have some effects on the aviation industry’s economy. Every year, a sizable number of people with H1B visas fly on flights from USA to India to renew or extend their visas.

With the introduction of H1B visas in the US, travelers will soon be able to travel to India without stress. There are many reasons like destination visits or business meetings except stamping.

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Travel on H-1B Visa

Travel during the visa request process.

Always discuss your travel plans with the International Scholars Operations (ISO) team before traveling internationally and before any petition is filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf.

Changes of Status

If you are in the U.S. and attempting to change your status to H-1B, or if your dependents are applying for a change of status to H-4, do not travel outside the U.S. while the petition is pending with USCIS. USCIS may say that you have abandoned the petition and deny your change of status. In this situation, you would have to exit the U.S., apply for a new H-1B visa stamp, and reenter as outlined in Coming to the U.S. page .

Extensions of Status and Changes of Employer

You can travel internationally and reenter the U.S. while your H-1B status is being extended or transferred from one employer to another, provided you have a valid I-797 Approval Notice and a valid H-1B visa (unless visa-exempt or eligible for automatic visa revalidation). If your current H-1B expires before you return, you may have to wait until the H-1B extension is approved to reenter.

Returning to the U.S. after a Temporary Absence

When returning to the U.S. after a temporary absence, be prepared to show the following to the Customs and Border Protection officer:

Original and unexpired Form I-797 Approval Notice.
Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the end date of your expected stay.
Letter from your UW host department confirming you are returning to continue full-time employment in the job described in the I-129 petition.
These were forwarded to you by your host department. If you cannot locate them, contact ISO .
Note: If the visa has expired, it may be extended by presenting the documents listed above to a U.S. consulate . Anticipate delays due to security reviews. For information about the visa process and to schedule an interview appointment, contact the U.S. consulate in the city where the application will be submitted.

Short Travel to Canada or Mexico under Automatic Visa Revalidation

A valid H-1B visa stamp (or H-4 visa stamp) is not required for reentry to the U.S. following a visit of less than 30 days in Canada or Mexico, as long as you have a valid H-1B approval notice. This is called automatic visa revalidation. However, if you apply for a new visa while in Canada or Mexico, you will not be able to return to the U.S. unless the visa is granted.

Automatic visa revalidation is not available to nationals of countries on the State Sponsors of Terrorism list .

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Trusted Traveler Programs
Global Entry
International Arrangements

Global Entry for Indian Citizens

How to apply for global entry:.

Citizens of India are eligible for Global Entry. Applications must be submitted through CBP’s Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website . The non-refundable application fee for a five-year Global Entry membership is $100 and applications must be made online. Once the application is approved, a CBP officer will conduct a scheduled interview with the applicant and then make a final eligibility determination.

Application Process:

Apply Online with CBP: Complete a TTP online application and pay the $100 non-refundable application fee.
After completion of step ‘1’ applicants need to submit the requisite information, along with the applicable fee of ₹500, in the Passport Seva Portal, www.passportindia.gov.in for their background check in India. In addition to this, all Indian applicants must schedule an in-person interview at the respective Passport Seva Kendra/Passport Seva Laghu Kendra (PSK/PSLK) office as per their residential jurisdiction in India (as per the address furnished online). During the interview, Indian citizens will have their fingerprints and photo captured and complete other formalities. A visit to the PSK/PSLK is based on prior appointment only.
If the applicant is not presently living in India, it is recommended that they apply for Global Entry prior to their next trip to India so that the appointment at the PSK/PSLK office can be completed during their visit.
Schedule an Interview in the U.S.: Once your application is reviewed, you will receive a message in your TTP account instructing you to schedule an interview at one of the Global Entry Enrollment Centers . If you are unable to schedule an in-person interview, you may opt to use the Enrollment On Arrival (EoA) option that is immediately available while entering the U.S. from an international country. No appointment is required for the EoA process. Additional information regarding EoA is available on the Enrollment on Arrival website .
Interview Determines Your Eligibility: A U.S. Customs Border Protection officer will ask you questions, take your photo, and collect your fingerprints.
Provide Identification: Bring your valid passport(s) and one other form of identification, such as a driver's license or ID card to the interview. If you are a lawful permanent resident, you must present your permanent resident card.

Other Benefits:

Once a citizen of India is enrolled in Global Entry, he/she will also be eligible to participate in TSA Precheck. Visit the TSA Precheck program website for more information.

Travel Requirements:

All Indian Global Entry members must have a valid passport and a valid visa. Global Entry members who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. lawful permanent residents must maintain updated visa information with CBP. If a Global Entry member obtains a new visa, or obtains a new petition for a work visa, the member must notify CBP in-person at a Global Entry enrollment center. A member must visit an enrollment center to have CBP add visa and/or update visa information. If the visa information is incomplete or not properly updated with CBP, the Global Entry kiosk may incorrectly calculate the member’s class of admission and admission date. A member must visit an enrollment center in-person to add or update visa information.

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You must not travel outside of the U.S. while the petition is pending. Leaving the country while USCIS is reviewing your petition will cause USCIS to consider your petition for a change of status to be abandoned. Your underlying H-1B petition may still be approved, but you would have to depart the U.S. and apply for an H-1B visa abroad to re-enter the U.S. in H-1B status before you could start your H-1B employment.
Once USCIS approves your change of status petition, you may travel internationally. Your H-1B status will take effect on the date that was requested.
While travel, as outlined above, is permissible, you may encounter difficulties when re-entering the U.S. or when applying for a visa for your current status. Therefore, we recommend that you do not travel internationally from the moment your department starts the H-1B process with our office until your H-1B status takes effect.
Please note that you must be in the U.S. when the H-1B petition is filed with USCIS.
You must alert the International Center of any travel plans while your H-1B extension is pending with USCIS.
If you re-entered the US on the basis of your old Approval Notice, you would only be admitted until the expiration date of the old H-1B Approval Notice and you would likely have to travel again to have this corrected.
If you must travel while your extension is pending and your H-1B status has expired, you will need to remain outside of the U.S. until your H-1B petition is approved. Your case may be converted to premium processing to accelerate the adjudication process.
If you are changing employers, you may travel while the U-M H-1B petition is pending. However, travel during this period is not recommended as you will need a valid H-1B Approval Notice and visa to re-enter the US. If you have a valid H-1B approval from your previous employer you may use that in conjunction with your U-M H-1B petition and Receipt Notice. Should your previous employer have withdrawn its H-1B petition - which is likely - you cannot use your previous H-1B approval. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you do not travel internationally during this period as you may not be able to return until your U-M H-1B petition has been approved .

For visitors, travel, student and other international travel medical insurance.

Home » Visas » Foreign Transit Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

Transit Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

The following table describes the transit visa requirements for citizens of India who are in the U.S.A. on a non-immigrant visa, whose non-immigrant visas are either valid or expired or there is an Adjustment of Status (I-485) pending, and who have either received their Advance Parole or not. When such individuals travel between the U.S.A. and India, depending upon the airline they use and transit locations, there may be different transit visa requirements. Please note that transit visa requirements are enforced by the particular country where the transit place is located and not by the individual airline itself.

The above requirements are true only if you are not changing any airports at the place of transit. A transit visa would be required in most places if you are changing airports. (Like London-Heathrow to London-Gatwick and vice versa).
These requirements are only for citizens of India in the U.S.A. who don’t have a green card. For citizens of other countries, look at the links below for further detailed requirements.
In case a transit visa is required for your specific journey, look at the links below to get more information about getting a transit visa.
If your particular journey requires multiple stops in different countries, make sure to check the list of all concerned countries to figure out whether you require a transit visa or not. E.g., if you are flying on Kuwait Airlines en route U.S.-London-Kuwait-India, you will not require a transit visa in Kuwait but will require one in London, UK. If the same airline’s route is U.S.-Kuwait-India, you will not require a transit visa.

More Details:

Non-U.S.A. Transit Visa Germany Transit Visa Airport Transit Visa – Schengen Transit Visa Insurance

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THINGS TO KNOW AFTER YOUR H-1B IS APPROVED

If you are the beneficiary of a recently approved H-1B petition, there are several important things you should know regarding visa issuance, validity, international travel, and more. Please review this material carefully. You should review all of this information after each H-1B approval. Later, you may jump ahead to certain sections.

You must have a valid visa stamp in your passport to return to the U.S., unless you are making a short trip to Canada or Mexico. Please contact our office before making travel plans .

You should be aware that no matter where you go to apply for your visa stamp, there is always a risk of administrative delays or security checks that could affect the processing time of your visa. Administrative processing of 2-4 weeks has become more common, and should be considered while making international travel plans.

For travel information specific to the U.S Embassy or Consulate you will visit, please see: https://www.usembassy.gov/

It is critical that you check your I-94 entry online each time you travel: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home and provide a copy to our firm. If you do not do so, we cannot be responsible for tracking this information.

H-1B status validity
Employment authorization
International travel
Visa processing
Port of Entry and I-94 Retrieval Information
If you move or change your address
Social security number
H-1B extensions
Permanent residence

H-1B STATUS

Your H-1B status is valid until the end validity date of your most recently issued I-94. Your I-94 is at the bottom of your I-797 approval notice, and/or the CBP electronic I-94 system. The H-1B status is employment-based, so your status immediately ends on the date employment is terminated.

If a change of status or extension of stay has been granted, the I-94 will be at the bottom of the I-797 approval notice. You are not required to travel outside the U.S. and apply for an H-1B visa in order to “activate” your H-1B approval.

If your H-1B petition has been approved for consular notification, then you will not receive an I-94 card at the bottom of your H-1B I-797 approval notice. You will need to apply for a visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate or Embassy abroad before your H-1B status can be “activated”.

EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION

Your H-1B status is valid only for the position stated on the H-1B petition, and for the period requested. You cannot accept any other employment outside of the sponsoring employer without filing another H-1B petition. Please let us know immediately if any significant changes occur in your job during your period of employment for your sponsoring employer. This includes changes in work location, salary, and job duties. Some changes may require an amended H-1B petition.

Your dependents’ H-4 status is valid until the end validity date of their most recently issued I-94.

Your spouse and children may not accept employment in the U.S. without separate authorization, since they are obtaining their H-4 status as the dependents of a temporary worker.

Your spouse and any dependent children will need to present the following documents when they apply for their H-4 visas:

A copy of your H-1B approval notice
Application Form DS-160, Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application
Their machine-readable passports (valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay)
Two color, passport-style photographs (each) if unable to upload photos to their DS-160

They may also be required to present a copy of your H-1B petition documents, their birth certificates (with certified translation, if applicable), marriage certificate, and copies of your financial documents such as pay stubs from your current employer. For more information, please refer to the U.S. Department of State website specifically designed for people seeking U.S. visas .

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

Please do not make plans to travel outside of the U.S. without contacting our office first.

You must have a valid visa stamp in your passport to return to the U.S., unless you are a Canadian citizen or are making a short trip to Canada or Mexico. Please contact our office before making travel plans.

If you already hold a valid H-1B visa stamp in your passport , we recommend that you take the following documents with you when you leave the U.S.:

Copy of the I-797 approval notice for the H-1B petition*
Evidence of maintenance of status if you were in the US, such as recent paystubs.
Employment verification letter: please ask your employer (usually Human Resources or direct supervisor) for a short letter confirming your title and salary such as “I am writing to confirm that [NAME] has the position of [xxxx] at a salary of $xxxx.”
Your machine-readable passport (valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay.)
Valid non-immigrant visa stamp

You may also want to log onto our portal to get a copy of the H-1B petition package filed. The package contains the employer support letter – you can look at that to see how the job was presented to be ready for any questions at the interview. Some consular websites still ask for a copy of the forms (LCA or I-129) even though those are now available electronically to the consular officer – those forms are also part of the H-1B package.

A travel letter template for your employer to complete before you travel can be found here.

If travel is required, advance planning and early visa application are critical. The Department of State has stated that applicants are advised when they apply that there is no time period within which administrative processing must be completed. Individuals will have to weigh the risk before making travel plans in advance of receiving a visa. Please contact our office prior to making irrevocable travel arrangements to discuss your plans .

* You do not need to present your original I-797 approval notice when you apply for entry into the U.S. The receipt number on your visa stamp is sufficient for officials at the port of entry to look up your petition approval in the system. This number typically begins with LIN, SRC, EAC, WAC, or IOE. We recommend traveling with a copy of the I-129 (I-797A) approval notice, especially if you intend to request a consulate-issued visa. The original I-129 petition is no longer needed by US consulates because hand-delivered copies are not considered to be secure documents. USCIS provides a copy of the I-129 petition directly to US consulates. Please also follow any specific instructions on the consular website about additional documents to bring to the interview.

As a general reminder, please be sure to double-check with your travel agent or airline about any transit visa(s) you may need for international flights, even quick stopovers.

VISA PROCESSING

If you are changing to a new employer and your extension of stay has been granted, you may continue to utilize the H-1B visa stamp in your passport for as long as it is valid.

If your change of status has been granted and you are traveling outside of the United States, or if your H-1B petition has been approved for consular notification, it will be necessary for you to apply at a U.S. Consulate for a new H-1B visa. At the Consulate, you will be required to present the following:

Copy of the I-797 Approval Notice for the H-1B petition*
Your machine-readable passport** (valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay)
Two color, passport-style photographs (if unable to upload photos to your DS-160)

You may also be required to present copies of the H-1B petition documents and proof of your employment, such as a letter from your employer. For more information, please refer to the U.S. State Department website specifically designed for people seeking U.S. visas .

You should be aware that no matter where you go to apply for your visa stamp, there is always the small risk of administrative delays or security checks that could affect the processing time of your visa. Typical administrative delays are 2-4 weeks, but some are much longer. The Department of State will not explain the reason for the delay, nor will they tell how long the delay will be.

For information and tips on filling out Form DS-160, please see this website . You will be required to upload a digital photograph. Please set aside time to complete this form. If you are applying for H-4 visas for your family, each non-U.S. citizen will also need a completed DS-160. You can create additional DS-160 forms by clicking the option to create a family or group application when you reach the “Thank You” page. You can alter the auto-generated information to tailor it for your dependents.

We cannot complete the DS-160 for you, but we are happy to answer any questions.

There will be a visa fee of at least $190 for each machine-readable visa issued. A reciprocity fee may also be required. You should confirm, with the U.S. Consulate, any specialized application procedures, processing time, and whether or not an appointment is required. Please note that U.S. Consulates, Embassies, and Ports of Entry may, in their discretion, choose to investigate any H visa application. It is therefore difficult to predict how long the wait will be for each visa issuance. You can check visa-waiting times here , and you can check consular procedures here .

Many applicants are eligible for an interview waiver ( please click here for information on Nonimmigrant Visa Interview Waivers ). Consulates generally use an online appointment system for visa applicants. It can take four to six weeks or longer for visa appointments. You can schedule your visa interview with your receipt number, beginning with 3 letters such as EAC or WAC, on your H-1B petition receipt.

During a visa appointment, you will be fingerprinted, photographed, and interviewed about your visa application and your prospective stay in the United States.

Consular officers are not supposed to re-adjudicate H-1B petitions that USCIS has already approved, unless the answers provided at the interview are very different from the information provided in the petition to USCIS. See 9 FAM 402.10-9(B) Approved Petition Is Prima Facie Evidence of Entitlement to H Classification .

In some cases, you can apply for your visa stamp in a third country such as Canada, or you can apply in your home country the next time you go home. Most clients do not have problems with their visa applications in Canada, especially if they graduated from a school in the U.S. or Canada and most of their work experience is from the U.S. or Canada.

You may also be subject to a sometimes lengthy security clearance including Visa Mantis, especially if you are involved in high-tech work. While there is no specific formula for avoiding such a delay, we generally recommend describing the potential use of technology on Form DS-160. For example, if you are engaged in bio-engineering, describe the purpose of your work – renewable energy, for instance. This may help a consular office understand that your work does not have potential application for national security or terrorism.

While it may not be possible to avoid pointed questions about the applicant’s job duties, including questioning as to the availability of U.S. workers, applicants should consider the following strategies to reduce the likelihood of a refusal under 221(g):

Applicants must be prepared to discuss the job offered and the specific skill set required to perform the job
Applicants should be prepared to provide a succinct “elevator pitch” explanation to the consular officer about the position. The applicant must clearly communicate what they do (or will be doing) and should be prepared to articulate the value that they bring to the U.S. employer.
Applicants should be prepared to explain how their position has a positive impact on the U.S. economy.
Applicants should have up-to-date resumes containing detailed information of their current and prior positions, education, publications, and other relevant experience. Published research and other works that are in the public domain should be included in the resume.
Applicants working as consultants or at third-party locations should be prepared to provide a work itinerary, an explanation of the supervisory reporting structure, and other relevant information to document the employer/employee relationship with the petitioner.

After your appointment, you should be able to track the status of your application on this website: https://ceac.state.gov/CEAC/ . Here are some frequently asked questions about applying for visa stamps: https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-fr/niv/information/faqs#book_travel_before_interview .

*You do not need to present your original I-797 approval notice at your visa interview. U.S. consulates and embassies are required to verify the approval of the H-1B petition by consulting the State Department’s Petition Information Management Service (PIMS), an electronic database that contains information on petition approvals. Please note that it may take several days or more for the consulate to verify the approval in the PIMS system, particularly if the visa application was the beneficiary of a petition to change or extend nonimmigrant status. Visa applicants should be prepared for the possibility of delays while the consulate verifies the petition approval.

** Note that the name on your passport must match the name on your I-797 approval notice. Otherwise, the issuance of your visa may be delayed. If you have only one name, or if your name appears in one line in your passport, your full name goes into the surname field and “first name unknown” or “FNU” goes into the given name. We recommend obtaining a new passport with given and surnames if possible. The visa stamp will only be issued for the validity period of the passport, so you may want to extend your passport to obtain the full visa term.

PORT OF ENTRY AND I-94 RETRIEVAL INFORMATION

You may enter the U.S. ten (10) days before the start date on your I-797 approval notice. At the port of entry, you may request that your I-94 card be issued with an additional ten (10) days beyond the expiration date of the I-797 approval notice. CBP officers at the port of entry are not required to grant these additional days, but you may still request them. If you receive additional days, you are not authorized to work beyond the expiration date of the I-797 approval notice.

You do not need to present your original I-797 approval notice when you apply for entry into the U.S. The receipt number on your visa stamp is sufficient for officials at the port of entry to look up the petition approval. We do recommend that you carry a copy of the I-797 approval notice and the petition documents to avoid potential delays.

After you have entered the U.S., please be sure to carefully check your new I-94 card online and visa stamp in your passport to confirm that the category and expiration date are correct. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has implemented an electronic I-94 system. Please be sure to visit https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov to confirm that your information was entered correctly into the system and also to print the I-94 information for your records. Please also be sure to email us a copy of the I-94 printout for your file. If there is an error, check here for instructions on how to fix an I-94 card within the U.S.

Once you receive your visa, please forward a copy of the visa and I-94 card to our office. Please be sure to do the same for your dependent(s). Accurate I-94 records control your lawful status – they are very important.

In general, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the expiration of your period of admission to the United States, to ensure that you will be able to depart the U.S. at the end of your stay and proceed to your home country or another country. There are some exceptions to this rule. If your country is in agreement with the U.S., your passport is deemed valid for an additional six months past its expiration date so that you can return to your country of citizenship. The list of member countries is here.

The expiration date of your I-94 should match the expiration date on the H-1B approval notice. However, if your passport expires before the end date of your H-1B approval notice, you may not be admitted to the United States for the full-term of your visa and your I-94 will expire on the date your passport expires. If this happens, please contact us so we can discuss how to maintain and extend your status. If your passport is renewed within 30 days of your entry, then you may be able to present your passport to a Deferred Inspection unit to have a new I-94 issued. We recommend that you contact the Deferred Inspection unit ahead of time for this type of issue – don’t just walk in. After 30 days, it will have to be done through an extension with USCIS.

If you receive a new I-797 approval notice extending your stay prior to your departure, be sure to present the I-797 approval with the latest validity date to ensure that your I-94 will have the latest expiration date.

IF YOU MOVE OR CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS

In addition, you should be aware that USCIS requires all non-U.S. citizens to carry their I-94 cards at all times and to inform USCIS of any change of address. You can notify USCIS of any change of address online.

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

You may begin work for an employer while your application for a Social Security Number (SSN) is pending. Before an SSN can be issued to you, the Social Security Administration must verify your nonimmigrant status with the Department of Homeland Security. It takes approximately 10 business days from the time you enter the United States for your entry data to be entered into DHS systems and made available for verification purposes. You may therefore wish to wait 10 business days after entry to file the application for an SSN, to minimize verification difficulties. Note that if you depart the U.S. while your SSN application is pending, the system may indicate your departure and your application may be suspended. You may then have to reapply for an SSN upon your re-entry to the U.S. We therefore recommend that you remain in the U.S. until your Social Security card is issued.

H-1B EXTENSIONS

Be sure to keep evidence of time spent outside the U.S. so that you may recapture this time, should you need to file an extension of H-1B status beyond the six (6) year limit. Evidence can include exit and entry stamps in your passport, plane tickets, itineraries, credit card statements, etc.

PERMANENT RESIDENCE

Please contact our office if you would like to initiate a permanent residence application. We recommend beginning the permanent residence application as early as possible so that you may be eligible to extend your H-1B status beyond the six (6) year limit.

If you have already applied for permanent residence and you are considering the use of your EAD/AP documents, please check this article for more information about the benefits and drawbacks .

If you would like a hard copy of the H-1B petition and approval notice mailed to you, or you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the attorney or paralegal that handled your case. It is our pleasure to assist you in this matter.

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Travel On H1B Visa While H1B Petition Is Pending:

Things you must know, introduction.

You are in the US, an H1B petition has been filed on your behalf and is pending, and you need to travel outside the US on a family emergency. What can you do? It is a common dilemma that many H1B workers find themselves in.

Let us examine when travel on H1B is safe while an H1B petition is pending, and the contexts when H1B travel outside the US can have an adverse effect on the H1B process.

A. Travel On H1B While An H1B Petition Is Pending

Foreign nationals in H1B status can travel outside the US and re-enter the United States as long as they have a valid H1B nonimmigrant visa stamp in their passport. Let’s examine the nuances of travel on H1B when an H1B petition is pending.

NOTE: It’s always safe to travel after H1B approval.

DID YOU KNOW? Canadian H1B holders are visa exempt and can travel as long their H1B petition validity dates have not expired.

1. Travel on H1B While H1B Extension of Stay or H1B Amendment Is Pending With The Same Employer

If an H1B petition to extend and/or amend H1B status with the same employer is pending with U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), the H1B employee may be able to travel on H1B if:

a. He/she is traveling on an unexpired H1B visa

b. He/she is going to return to the US before the expiration of the current H1B approval notice.

Simply put, if the individual’s original H1B status has not expired, then H1B travel outside the US is generally allowed.

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2. Travel Outside The US When Beneficiary Does Not Have A Valid H1B Visa

If an H1B extension of stay petition has been filed and the employee does not have a valid H1B visa, he/she will be able to get an H1B visa stamp if travel abroad is undertaken and the underlying H1B petition is still valid.

If an H1B Amendment petition has been filed and the employee has already begun working pursuant to the terms of the amended petition, the employee cannot seek to obtain a new visa stamp until the amendment is approved. Travelling outside the US in this scenario is not recommended.

3. Travelling Outside The US While An H1B Change of Employer Petition Is Pending

If an H1B petition is filed for a Change of Employer and the H1B employee begins working for the new employer under AC21 H1B Portability , the H1B employee may be able to travel on H1B while the petition is pending if:

a. He/she is traveling on an unexpired H1B visa;

b. He/she was previously lawfully admitted and has maintained their H1B status; and

c. He/she is carrying the H1B Receipt Notice (I-797, Notice of Action) for the Change of Employer petition.

The H1B employee cannot travel outside the US, however, if he/she does not already have a valid H1B visa stamp in the passport. If the H1B employee travels out of the US and does not already have a valid visa stamp in the passport, he/she will need to wait for the H1B approval and then obtain the H1B visa stamp before being able to re-enter the US.

DID YOU KNOW? If an H1B Change of Employer petition is pending but the employee has decided to remain with his or her current employer, then travel outside the US is not an issue as long as the employee has a valid H1B approval notice and H1B visa stamp (or can obtain one before re-entering).

4. H1B Petition Is Adjudicated While The Employee Is Travelling Outside The US

If the H1B Extension of Stay petition or Change of Employer petition is adjudicated while the H1B employee is outside the US, he/she has several options:

Requirements To Travel After H1B Approval.

My Case Scenario Elizabeth

Elizabeth is in the US in H1B status. She is working for XYZ, Inc. Her H1B status expires in 2 months and her employer has already filed an H1B Extension of Stay on her behalf. Elizabeth needs to go out of the country on urgent business. She has a valid H1B visa stamp in her passport. Can she travel outside the US?

Yes, Elizabeth will be able to travel on H1B visa and re-enter the US with the previously issued H1B visa stamp and H1B approval notice. Once she re-enters and after the H1B petition is approved, her status will be extended. If the H1B extension of stay petition is approved while she is abroad, her employer should send her the approval notice. She can then use the new approval notice and existing visa stamp to re-enter the U.S. CBP should give her an I-94 that matches the expiration date of the new approval notice.

B. Travel Outside The US While H1B Change Of Status Is Pending

Foreign nationals in valid nonimmigrant status may have an employer file an H1B Change of Status petition on their behalf. Lets examine the various scenarios when a need to travel outside the US arises while the Change of Status petition is pending.

1. Travel Outside The US When H1B Change Of Status Petition Is Pending

Travel outside the US while an H1B Change of Status petition is pending will result in automatic abandonment of the request to change status. In this scenario, USCIS may still approve the request for H1B by the employer, but the change of status request should be denied.

The beneficiary may only return to the US in their previous nonimmigrant status (if still valid or applicable) or the beneficiary must wait until the H1B petition is approved so that he/she can obtain an H1B visa stamp with which to re-enter the US.

DID YOU KNOW? If a Beneficiary travels outside the US while an H1B Change of Status is pending, USCIS may inadvertently approve the change of status. Beneficiaries who returned to the US in the previously held nonimmigrant status should not rely on this approval. In order to activate the H1B, the beneficiary must leave the US and obtain an H1B visa stamp and re-enter or the employer must file a new Change of Status/Amendment petition.

2. Travelling Outside The US When H1B Change Of Status Petition Is Approved With A Future Start Date

If an H1B Beneficiary is travelling outside the US after an H1B petition is approved with a future start date but is re-entering the US before the validity of the H1B begins , the foreign national may enter the US in the previously held nonimmigrant status. The foreign national’s nonimmigrant status will then change to H1B as of the date of the H1B validity start date.

IMPORTANT If an H1B Beneficiary undertakes a travel outside the US after an H1B petition is approved with a future start date but is re-entering the US after the validity of the H1B begins in another nonimmigrant status, the H1B Change of Status is effectively abandoned.

Elizabeth was in H4 status and an H1B Change of Status petition was filed on her behalf. While the H1B Change of Status was pending, she traveled outside the US. The H1B was approved when she was abroad. What effect does that have on her H1B? What were her options to return to the US?

When Elizabeth left the US while the H1B Change of Status was pending, the request for Change of Status was abandoned. Elizabeth would have had 2 options to re-enter the US:

Obtain an H1B Visa stamp at the US Consulate once the H1B was approved and travel on H1B visa to re-enter the US in H1B status.
Return to the US with a valid H4 visa to resume her H4 status. With this option, once the H1B was approved, she would have to leave the US again to obtain an H1B visa and re-enter OR her employer would have file a new H1B petition to change her status.

Travelling outside the US while an H1B petition is pending has numerous pitfalls and can be risky unless the employee is armed with the accurate information, and proper precautions are taken before undertaking the H1B travel outside the US.

If you have any queries about travel on H1B visa, or travel outside the US while an H1B petition is pending, or need assistance filing for a US visa or Green Card, contact VisaPro for a FREE Immigration Lawyer Consultation .

We’ll talk through your priorities and recommend strategies based on our attorneys’ near 100% success rate.

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Knowledgeable, fast, courteous, efficient are all words that describe the services I received from VisaPro. They were very helpful in all phases of the H-1B visa process and they got it right the first time. I have tried other Visa services, but VisaPro is the best by far. VisaPro is the only way to go!"

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Q: Is it mandatory to travel to India from USA for H1B visa stamping when a person is not in USA during I129 filing.

My spouse travelled to USA from India in 2022. I applied for H1B lottery in 2023, my application got picked up in lottery. My Employer had filed the H1B petition in June 2023. I travelled to USA as dependent on H4 in August 2023. In Jan 2024, my H1B petition got approved. Now I am willing to work in USA, so should I go back to India, go to US consulate for Interview and get the stamping done. (or) Can I apply for Change of status (H4 to H1B) here itself ( I mean from USA itself, without travelling to India)

Immigration Law Lawyer
Sacramento, CA
(916) 704-3009
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A: Based on the information provided, it seems that you are currently in the United States on an H-4 visa, and your H-1B petition was approved in January 2024. In this situation, you have two options: 1. Change of Status (COS) within the United States: You can file Form I-539 to request a change of status from H-4 to H-1B without leaving the country. If your COS is approved, you can start working for your H-1B employer on the approved start date. However, keep in mind that if you later travel outside the U.S., you will need to visit a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad to obtain an H-1B visa stamp before reentering the country. 2. Consular Processing: You can choose to travel back to India and go through consular processing to obtain your H-1B visa stamp at a U.S. consulate or embassy. After receiving your visa stamp, you can reenter the United States and start working for your H-1B employer. It is not mandatory to travel to India for H-1B visa stamping if you are already in the United States when your H-1B petition is approved. The COS option allows you to begin working without leaving the country. However, the choice between COS and consular processing depends on your personal circumstances and travel plans. It is advisable to consult with your employer and an experienced immigration attorney to determine the best course of action for your specific case.

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iHopkins Login

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

Isn't it a relief to finally have your H1B visa in your hand after all those long hours of nervous waiting? Now that you have your H1B visa, it's time to start packing! We bet you have a long list of items to pack and take to the US. But did you know that most H1B holders pack a lot of things that are not necessary? Thanks to poor information and wrong guidance, people carry more stuff than they need.

For your convenience, we have compiled this article that discusses:

Things that you can carry to the US
Things to avoid carrying to the US
Documents required to carry to the US when travelling on an H1B visa.

Keep yourself well-informed before you start packing!

Documents & Medication To Take to the US in Your H1B Visa Travel

Even after you have obtained your H1B visa, you cannot travel right away to the US. As per immigration rules, you can enter the US only 10 days before the start date indicated on Form I-797. As soon as you land on US soil, you will have some formalities to complete. You have to:

Present Form I-797, your valid passport, and a valid H1B visa at the port of entry to the US. Fill the Arrival/ Departure Record or Form I-94 with the necessary information Give your name exactly as it appears on your passport

To ensure a safe, worthwhile stay in the US, you have to carry all the required documents and paperwork. You will need your:

Current original passport and its copy
Flight ticket
Boarding pass
H1B visa documents
Soft copies of all the documents

Click here to see the full list of documents required for your H1B travel .

List of items to take to the US

It is wise to draft an H1B travel checklist instead of blindly packing everything that comes to mind. One of the most important things you will need is medical or health coverage, the most vital aspect of an international travel policy. Besides, medical costs are quite expensive in the US. Hence, it is better to arm yourself with an international health insurance policy and some medication to manage health-related emergencies.

What are the medication you are allowed to take to the US?

It is wise to have the following medication with you during your H1B travel to US :

Portable first aid kit to handle medical emergencies.
Over-the-counter medication for fever and cough such as Benadryl, Crocin, Metacin, etc. Make sure to check the expiry dates and buy only fresh stock.
Prescription sheets if you suffer from chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, asthma, or migraine. If you carry medication for such ailments, you may have to show these prescriptions.
Immunizations records of any immunizations that you have taken before the journey.
Eyeglasses because they are expensive in the USA. We recommend packing at least two pairs of eyeglasses. If you are using contacts, please purchase them based on how often you change them.

Also Read : H1B Travel - A Road Map to Guide You

List of Clothing, Food, & Miscellaneous Items to Pack

Even if you own a hoard of clothes, you ought to be sensible about what you pack. You can carry dress items like a couple of good jeans, tops, and t-shirts. You might want to consider buying clothes in the US when the sale is on. That's when you can purchase clothes at reasonable prices. Apart from clothes, you must take:

Formal wear
Undergarments
Sneakers (1pair)
Formal shoes (1 pair)
Slippers (1 pair)

As far as accessories are concerned, it is wise to pack your belts and wallets too, because they are quite expensive in the US.

Food items and utensils

Many branded masala powders are available in the US. You can find them in your local Indian grocery shops. However, you may also carry homemade dried spice powders in air-tight containers. We also suggest packing a cooker with an extra gasket and whistle.

Miscellaneous items

You will need some miscellaneous items to sustain yourself for the first few weeks in the US. You will need:

International calling cards: To make inexpensive long-distance calls to your friends and family, it is better to purchase an international SIM card. You may also download a low-cost international calling app.
Foreign travel card: You can ask your bank for a Forex card.
US Dollars: Get an ample amount of currency exchanged for US dollars to have liquid cash to meet your expenses.
Travel insurance: Although it is not mandatory, it is always safe to carry travel insurance.

Apart from the above-mentioned items, you will need:

Credit or debit cards
Pocket diary with important contact numbers
Adapters and chargers for all your electronic gadgets
Passport size photos of yourself

So, here is your list of things to pack for your H1B visa travel. Let's now check the list of items that you cannot carry to the USA.

List of Items to Avoid Taking to the USA

While packing your suitcases for your H1B travel, it is always wise to avoid carrying a few items. They are:

Winter clothes

It's best not to pack your woolen clothes and long coats because you can purchase them all in the US. Besides, you also get better ones there.

All personal care items and toiletries can be purchased in the US. However, please purchase your toiletries in India if you use anything for specific skin conditions.

Electrical appliances

Since the power specifications are different in the US, your electrical appliances may not work.

Avoid taking items like rice, oil, pulses, and legumes, unless you are going to a very remote place where there are no international grocery shops.

Other than a cooker, it's best not to wastefully invest in non-stick pans, crockery, and other kitchen utensils. You can buy them at cheaper prices and better quality in the US.

Finally, it is advisable not to carry any medication or drugs, not on the prescriptions. Also, please ensure that all medication prescriptions are in your name.

It will take a few weeks to acclimatize yourself to the weather and cost of living in the US. But once you find your footing, you will realize that the USA is one of the best places to live in. Since you will find everything you need, it is best to pack light. Just ensure that you have all the basic and important items for a hassle-free experience.

Remember your journey's purpose: You are there on an H1B visa to establish a flourishing career and a bright future. Therefore, you ought to make the most of this opportunity. Remember to respect the nation, its people, and its customs. Follow all the rules and regulations and blend in to avoid trouble with the law. And don't forget to enjoy yourself!

Get the up-to-date information from TechFetch H1B

It is always better to get correct information rather than act on assumptions when you start packing for your H1B travel. Check our TechFetch H1B for the right guidance.

** Disclaimer: All H1B-related information is subject to change. Please refer to the USCIS official website for the latest updates regarding the H1B visa.**

Article by Techfetch H1B team

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Do you need New H1B Visa Stamping after Transfer? H4? FAQs

Many of the H1B Visa holders in the US or outside of the US, go through something called H1B Visa Transfer Process when they wish to change employers. One common question that comes to mind is the validity of their H1B Visa stamping on their passport after the change of employer.

Many are unsure if they need to get a new H1B visa stamp or if they need to renew the visa stamping on their passports. In this article, we will cover these topics, including common questions.

H1B Visa Stamping in a Passport with Employer Name Annotation

In general, you need a valid US Visa to enter America. Depending on your purpose of entering the US, you get a different class of US Visa. If you would like to work in the US as an international high-skilled worker, you must get a US visa of class ‘H1B’ stamped on your passport. The H1B Visa stamp is a sticker or foil that is glued to your passport page when you go through H1B Visa stamping Process after your H1B approval from USCIS.

It looks like in the below image with the classification stated as H1B.

H1B US Visa Sample with Annotation of Employer Name and Receipt Number

One key thing to note is that the H1B Visa Stamp (visa foil glued in page) usually has an annotation with the employer’s name and case number, as in the above screenshot. Also, there could be other visa annotations like ‘Clearance Received’ or ‘Department Authorization’. The employer name on the visa stamp would be the same as the ‘Employer Name’ listed on the original H1B approval notice I797 from your employer.

Confusion with Employer Name in Annontation

The reason for confusion regarding the H1B stamp validity arises due to the Employer/ Company Name and H1B Receipt or Case Number printed on the visa in the annotation section. As the H1B visa stamp has the name of the company that sponsored the H1B Visa, many assume that the visa stamp is also tied to the employer and that they need a new visa stamp, after the H1B transfer. Let’s clarify this in the next section.

Do you need New Visa Stamping after the H1B Transfer? Validity?

The employer’s name in the annotation section on the H1B Visa stamp is not related to the validity of the stamp. The annotation on the visa stamp indicates the name of the employer who sponsored H1B with USCIS at the time of the stamping. The H1B Visa stamp that is issued to the individual and stamped in their passport is not employer-specific and continues to be valid even after you move to another employer until the ‘Expiration Date’ on it.

Annotations on US Visa stamps are for guidance to the Customs and Border Protection officers, who verify the same at the US Port of entry procedures . The information in the annotation section does not dictate the validity of the visa stamp, only the ‘Expiration Date’ field on the visa indicates that.

If you look at the sample H1B Visa stamp below that highlights the ‘Expiration Date’, it tells the expiration date, which is the end date of the validity of the H1B visa stamp. Also, under entries, if you have the letter ‘ M’ , it means your visa is valid for Multiple entries until the expiration date of the H1B stamp.

H1B Visa Validity on US Visa Stamp in Passport - Expiration Date

You can use your valid H1B visa stamp (even with your old employer’s name and case number) for your travel after the H1B transfer with all other supporting documents of the new employer like approval notice, offer letter, etc. You do not need a new H1B Visa Stamping in your passport after the H1B Visa transfer as long as the previous H1B stamp in your passport is valid.

Documents Needed at Port of Entry after H1B Transfer

When you enter the US at any of the various US Ports of Entry locations, with your H1B stamp from your previous employer, you will need to make sure you present current documents related to your new employer and indicate that you have transferred. This is to make sure your I-94 end date reflects your new H1B petition end date and CBP Officers enter your current employer details in the system.

Below are the documents that you will need to carry at the port of entry:

Original H1B Transfer Approval Notice (I-797 form)
Employment offer letter, agreement (if any)
H1B LCA tied to the new position after H1B transfer
Recent Pay Stubs, if you are already in the US and working with a new company.
Copy of your old H1B approval notice and offer letter, pay stubs, etc. as supporting documents, if asked.
Contact Info of your new employer
General proofs tied to your profile like Education Certificates, Professional licenses, etc.

Can my H1B Visa Stamp be revoked by the US Government Official? Prudential Revocation?

Your H1B Visa stamp can be revoked by the US Consulate based on a request from any US Government officials or any US Government Agency for issues related to law enforcement. This could be for instances such as Driving Under the Influence(DUI) or national security, etc. The revocation done as per the request from government officials is called ‘prudential revocation’. Below is a screenshot of the official rule on the US State.gov website.

If a prudential revocation happens, you would be very likely informed via email that your visa is revoked and you cannot use it. Having a visa revocation does not necessarily impact your current status in the US and you may stay in the US, but cannot re-enter the US with the same visa. Read US Visa vs Status , if you want to know the difference. If you end up in such situations, it is best to contact your immigration attorney to seek help.

If your H1B visa is revoked due to prudential revocation as explained above, then you cannot use your current H1B Visa, even though it stands valid and not past the expiration date. In such cases, you need to apply for a new H1B Visa with the US consulate. You can enter the US with the new H1B visa stamp issued by the consulate, once approved.

Common FAQs

No, the same concept explained above applies to H4 visa dependents as well. If the H4 visa holder’s visa stamp on the passport is valid, they can use the same visa stamp and present the New H1B approval notice copy of their spouse after transfer. They do not need to go for renewal or new visa stamping.

No, your employer cannot revoke or cancel the H1B visa stamp on your passport. They can only withdraw the petition from USCIS indicating the end of the employer, but they cannot really do anything with your visa stamping and it has no impact. Even though the message on the USCIS website regarding your petition says ‘revoked’, it does not have any impact on the US Visa stamp in your passport.

No, you cannot travel to the US on your old employer’s stamp in this case, because you do NOT have valid employment from anyone in the US with supporting approval notice from USCIS. You can only use H1B Stamp from the previous employer if you have a valid H1B approval notice from an employer and they are willing to employ you and pay you so that you can work on the H1B status in the US. Trying to enter the US, just with a valid H1B stamp without a proper H1B approval notice and a job from an employer in the US is illegal and you may face issues at the Port of Entry and may be deported as well.

You can use your H1B Stamp from Employer A to enter the US along with your valid H1B Approval notice from Employer B. Even if you are traveling to the US for the first time, it does not matter as long as your H1B visa stamp is valid in your passport. You need to ensure you carry all the documents related to your new employer B and also copies of Employer A approval notice so that you have all of that covered.

What has been your experience with H1B Visa Transfer and using Visa Stamp from your old employer at the US port of entry?

Why Indian IT’s reliance on H-1B work visas has plunged 56% in the last 8 years

R educing dependence on H1-B visas: Over the past eight years, India's top seven IT services companies have experienced a significant 56% decrease in their utilization of the H-1B visa program, which is the premier US work visa.

Interestingly, the trend has been the opposite for major American technology companies like Amazon and Google. According to an ET report, experts attribute the declining reliance on H-1B visas by Indian IT companies to their increased local hiring efforts in the United States. Additionally, factors such as high denial rates during the Trump administration and the tightening of immigration policies have contributed to this shift.

The National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP) data shows that approved H-1B visa petitions for initial employment in the US from the seven Indian companies dropped from 15,166 in fiscal 2015 to 6,732 in 2023.

Tata Consultancy Services, which had the highest approvals in FY15, saw a 75% decline over the eight-year period. Infosys, Wipro, and HCL America (the US unit of HCLTech) experienced declines of 21%, 69%, and 46%, respectively. The remaining three companies — LTIMindtree, Tech Mahindra, and Hexaware Technologies — also reported a decrease in approvals.

"The number of new H-1B petitions for Indian companies declined because the companies built up their domestic workforce in the United States and have relied less on visas. Also, Indian companies are following the industry trend of serving clients by using more digital services, such as cloud computing, bots and artificial intelligence, which require fewer workers," said Stuart Anderson, the executive director of NFAP.

Anderson believes that the use of the H-1B program by Indian companies is unlikely to increase significantly in the future, as these companies will almost certainly continue to expand local hiring in the US when possible and follow the trend of using more technology.

Also Read | Apple iPhone exports from India nearly double in April to $1.1 billion; may hit Rs 1 lakh crore mark in FY25

Indian IT service providers like Infosys have been hiring extensively in the US, replicating their Indian talent model, which has reduced the need for H-1B visa workers, according to Peter Bendor-Samuel, chief executive of research firm Everest Group.

"However, it has not eliminated the need and most Indian firms would like to increase the number of H-1B's. It is the huge numbers applying for H-1B's and the lottery to get them which is constraining the numbers," Bendor-Samuel said.

The US government has recently taken steps to tighten the work visa regime. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) increased the H-1B registration fee to $215 from $10 and the application fee to $780 from $460 earlier this year. Additionally, a $600 'asylum fee' was added while filing H-1B and other petitions, making the process more expensive.

In April, the USCIS reported that the number of eligible registrations had decreased by nearly 40% from 758,994 for FY 2024 to 470,342 for FY 2025. The agency attributed this decline to its new 'beneficiary-centric' approach, which aims to reduce fraud. The total number of registrations also fell from 780,884 for FY24 to 479,953 for FY25.

According to Phil Fersht, chief analyst at HFS Research, the significant influx of Indians emigrating to the US with their companies has resulted in a reduced need to sponsor visas for junior or mid-level Indian staff.

The decreasing reliance on H-1B visas by Indian IT companies for initial employment in the United States has been attributed to several factors. According to Fersht, "It hurts the cost-effectiveness of the Indian services model to keep accelerating the immigration of more Indian tech workers." The expert pointed out that the higher cost of living in the US and the growing opportunities for IT professionals within India have made moving to the US less attractive for Indian tech workers.

In contrast, some American Big Tech companies have experienced the opposite trend. Amazon, for example, went from being ranked 10th in terms of approved H-1B visas for initial employment in FY 2015 to being ranked 1st in FY 2023, with a 279% increase in approvals. Similarly, Google, which was not among the top 10 in 2015, ranked fourth in FY 2023.

Shivendra Singh, vice president of global trade and development at Nasscom, an IT industry body, highlighted the Indian companies' efforts to localize their workforce in the US over the past decade. He stated that the industry has invested $1.1 billion in strengthening the STEM pipeline in the US, collaborating with more than 130 colleges and universities, and upskilling 255,000 employees. Additionally, the industry has directly and indirectly created and supported over 600,000 jobs in the US.

Singh emphasized that despite the changes in H-1B visa trends, "Around 70% of the visas still go to Indian nationals, a large proportion being hired by American companies. This is testimony to their skill set, and critical role in making the US economy the No.1 economy in the world."

For more news like this visit TOI . Get all the Latest News , City News , India News , Business News , and Sports News . For Entertainment News , TV News , and Lifestyle Tips visit Etimes

Why Indian IT’s reliance on H-1B work visas has plunged 56% in the last 8 years

The US Travel Guide

Checklist for us travel from India

These are some important things in checklist for us travel from india.

Other common things in Checklist for us travel from India on h1b

All your Passports
Flight ticket
Degree certificates
Original I797 (if any)
I129 and LCA (if any)
formal cloths
Some Indian sweets for friends in US 🙂

Checked in baggage size for USA travel

Total linear dimension(length + height + width) of each checked in baggage should not exceed 62 inches(158 cm). Weight of each checked in baggage should not exceed 23 kg. In my own experience, Most of the airlines are OK with +1 kg extra weight.

Almost all the airlines allow two checked in luggage and one cabin bag and one laptop bag. But to be on the safer side we should always check this while booking airline ticket.

Which flight to book for US travel?

Direct flights to United States of America: If you are a lady and you have kids with you then i would suggest always book direct flights. If you are a lady and coming for the first time to USA then direct flight is the best option. Direct flights sometime costs more but have it’s own advantage. If you are coming from India then you can book air India which fly directly from Delhi and Mumbai to New York, Newark and other cities.

Note: If you are bringing your parents to USA then always book direct flights.

Indirect flights to United States of America: Indirect flights are good for those who come alone. Most of the time indirect flights are cheaper. So, if you want to save some bucks, it is the best choice.

Personally, I like to travel in indirect flight as you can save some bucks. And you can also see one or two place as well. There are lot of indirect flight options.

US currency

Try to keep at least $100 as a cash. You can easily exchange your home country currency into dollars at the airport.

Things to pack in cabin bag

Always remember your checked in baggage may get lost or delayed for some reason. There is no need to panic if lost or get delayed. You will get it after sometime. So, always pack two or three pairs of cloth in cabin bag. And any other useful things like medicine, documents etc..

Always remember to put your charger in hand bag or cabin bag.

Winter cloths for USA

If you are travelling east cost side of USA like new jersey, Washington DC etc. then buy some warm cloths. If you are travelling in winter season then you must buy some good winter cloths.

Travel Insurance For USA

It is always better to take travel insurance if you are visiting to USA. The weather condition is different in USA than India. So, if you are coming for the first time, you may fall sick. Medical expenses are too much in USA. If you don not have insurance than you are gone.

While taking insurance keep these things in mind

Your USA travel insurance company’s network or PPO networks should be near to place you are going to visit.
Cost which is one of the biggest factor while taking insurance.

Some travel insurance for USA offers plans like comprehensive travel insurance. This type of plan can cover medical emergencies and can also cover certain type of travel related coverage like baggage loss and travel-related emergencies.

International sim card

It is always better to have a international sim card. You can get it at the airport.

Power adapter

Always carry your power adapter for your electronic gadgets as us power adapter has different voltage.

US Plug adapter or Universal to USA plug adapter

You need this, because your adapter will not work directly with American sockets.

USA emergency number

Always remember 911 emergency number. If you are in trouble anywhere in the United States of America. Call 911. Cops are the best here.

For some common questions click. Top 25 questions everyone will have in mind while traveling to America

If you have any doubt about Checklist for us travel from India, please comment below. We will do our best to clear your doubt.

My First Experience Of Traveling To USA On H4 Visa

Rights of immigrants in usa (H1b, H4, F1, B1, B2 Visa, Green Card)

rights of immigrants in usa: H1b, H4, f1, b1, b2 visa, gc

IMAGES

Stress-free Travel to India with H1B Visa Stamping in the U.S.A
How to Apply H1B Visa from India: H1B Stamping Experience
Can I Travel To India After Applying For H1b Extension
H1B Visa: Process, Requirements and H1B Visa for Indians
H1B Visa for Indian: Eligibility Criteria, Validity & Fee
How to travel the world on a H1B visa

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I am planning to travel from US to India, for which there is a Lufthansa flight that goes through Frankfurt. There I will be switching from one Lufthansa flight (Lufthansa 9053) to another (Lufthansa 758). The layover time in Frankfurt is around 2 hours. I am an Indian citizen. I am on H1B visa with an approved extension (has the
No easing of delays for H-1B visa holders travelling to India
In fiscal 2021, Indians bagged 74.1% of the 4.07 lakh H-1B visas approved by the USCIS; while in 2020 the figure was 74.9% of the total of 4.26 lakh approved. And now, with the delays in getting ...
Travel while H1B Pending (Extension, Transfer, Amendment, COS)
You can travel to India while H1B extension is in progress and visa is still valid for re-entry. H1B extension status when you re-enter USA: #1 H1B Extension APPROVED. You will have to get the hard copy of your approved H1B's i797 and apply for an H1B visa at the US embassy before you can enter the USA with NEWLY approved H1B extended petition.
Indian Citizen on H1B Visa: Countries You Can Visit ...
Last updated: Dec 7, 2022. As I myself have traveled a lot (on an H1B visa in the past) and run this blog on world travel, I have compiled the ultimate checklist for visa-free travel destinations for Indian citizens living in the United States.. There are as many as 18 countries that would allow an Indian citizen to enter their borders with a valid US single or any multiple-entry visa (F1, H1 ...
I am on H1B and need to travel to India.
3 attorney answers. A person with a valid passport and current H visa may be admitted to the US with a US citizen child, NIE, or quarantine in a non-covid country . H-1B visa requires a qualified employer to petition the U.S. Government for its intended H1B Beneficiary foreign national by initially retaining a licensed immigration counsel.
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.
No respite from delays for H-1B visa holders travelling to India
There are thousands of Indians working on H-1B visas in the US with Indian nationals getting the largest numbers every year. In fiscal 2021, Indians bagged 74.1% of the 4.07 lakh H-1B visas approved by the USCIS; while in 2020 the figure was 74.9% of the total of 4.26 lakh approved. And now, with the delays in getting dates to submit their ...
Stress-free Travel to India with H1B Visa Stamping in the U.S.A
With the introduction of H1B visas in the US, travelers will soon be able to travel to India without stress. There are many reasons like destination visits or business meetings except stamping. US President's advisory council recommends the establishment of a facility for the stamping of H1B visas in the USA making travel stress-free.
usa
Apr 13, 2021 at 15:24. No, airlines won't care about you leaving the US. As long as you can enter the destination country and travel to any transit countries, they're fine. If you're really out of status you may be flagged by the US and have trouble coming back in the future, though I don't really know the rules for H1B visas.
Travel on H-1B Visa
You can travel internationally and reenter the U.S. while your H-1B status is being extended or transferred from one employer to another, provided you have a valid I-797 Approval Notice and a valid H-1B visa (unless visa-exempt or eligible for automatic visa revalidation). If your current H-1B expires before you return, you may have to wait ...
Can I Travel While My H-1B Application Is Pending at USCIS?
Traveling While Awaiting an H-1B Extension. International travel while your H-1B extension is pending at USCIS is permitted if you have an unexpired visa, but be aware of a few points before taking your trip. First, you must be present in the U.S. at the time your employer files your extension petition. If you have a pending extension petition ...
Global Entry for Indian Citizens
How to Apply for Global Entry: Citizens of India are eligible for Global Entry. Applications must be submitted through CBP's Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website. The non-refundable application fee for a five-year Global Entry membership is $100 and applications must be made online. Once the application is approved, a CBP officer will conduct a scheduled interview with the applicant and ...
H-1B Visa Stamping in India
The H-1B visa stamping process in India is a multi-step procedure that requires careful attention to detail. This section provides an overview of the key steps involved, from initial application to the actual stamping of the visa. DS-160 Form Filing: The first step involves completing the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160.
Travel while an H-1B Petition is Pending
Whether or not you may travel internationally while your H-1B petition is pending depends on a variety of factors: You must not travel outside of the U.S. while the petition is pending. Leaving the country while USCIS is reviewing your petition will cause USCIS to consider your petition for a change of status to be abandoned.
Transit Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens
Transit Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens. The following table describes the transit visa requirements for citizens of India who are in the U.S.A. on a non-immigrant visa, whose non-immigrant visas are either valid or expired or there is an Adjustment of Status (I-485) pending, and who have either received their Advance Parole or not.
Things to Know After Your H-1b Is Approved
Your I-94 is at the bottom of your I-797 approval notice, and/or the CBP electronic I-94 system. The H-1B status is employment-based, so your status immediately ends on the date employment is terminated. If a change of status or extension of stay has been granted, the I-94 will be at the bottom of the I-797 approval notice.
How To Travel On H1B Visa While H1B Petition Is Pending?
1. Travel on H1B While H1B Extension of Stay or H1B Amendment Is Pending With The Same Employer. If an H1B petition to extend and/or amend H1B status with the same employer is pending with U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), the H1B employee may be able to travel on H1B if: a. He/she is traveling on an unexpired H1B visa. b.
Travelling from US to India through Frankfurt on expired H1B visa with
You need a transit visa unless you meet one of the other criteria of exemption (e.g. holding a valid Canadian or Japanese visa). Based on documents issued by the United States, Indian nationals are exempt from the transit visa requirement imposed by Germany if they have a valid visa or permanent residence permit issued by the United States of America, or if having used a now expired visa ...
Is it mandatory to travel to India from USA for H1B visa stamping when
I travelled to USA as dependent on H4 in August 2023. In Jan 2024, my H1B petition got approved. Now I am willing to work in USA, so should I go back to India, go to US consulate for Interview and get the stamping done. (or) Can I apply for Change of status (H4 to H1B) here itself ( I mean from USA itself, without travelling to India)
Travel in H-1B Status
When you travel outside of the U.S., you should take the following with you: To request a Travel Letter: 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 […]
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.
H1B Visa Travel: List Of Items To Take & Avoid
Here's a list of things you should carry and avoid when traveling to the USA on an H1B visa. Keep yourself well-informed before you start packing! ... Things to Carry While Travelling to USA From India for H1B. March 25, 2022. Techfetch H1B team. 8 mins. H1b Visa Guide.
Do you need New H1B Visa Stamping after Transfer? H4? FAQs
I am aware that I can travel to India and come back on Employer A H1B stamp + Employer B I-797, but is there a possibility of stamping it in December 2022 as my H-1B validity would extend to 2025. ... And can i travel to india immediately once my h1b transfer is approved and get stamped will there be any issues in the stamping process. Plz ...
Why Indian IT's reliance on H-1B work visas has plunged 56% in ...
R educing dependence on H1-B visas: Over the past eight years, India's top seven IT services companies have experienced a significant 56% decrease in their utilization of the H-1B visa program ...
Checklist for us travel from India
These Are Some Important Things in Checklist for us travel from India Checklist for us travel from India. Other common things in Checklist for us travel from India on h1b. All your Passports; Flight ticket; Degree certificates; Original I797 (if any) I129 and LCA (if any) T-shirts; Jeans; formal cloths; Some Indian sweets for friends in US 🙂
Decline in H-1B visa use by Indian IT companies: 4 ...
In the past few years, there has been a significant decline in H-1B visa utilisation by Indian IT companies in the US. Gone are the days when Indian IT companies depended heavily on H-1B visas and ...