2024 Holiday Travel Tips: Be Prepared for International Travel
With the holidays fast approaching, international travel is likely on your mind. While planning your trip can be exciting, it can also be stressful. By preparing for current immigration requirements ahead of time, you can reduce that stress, save valuable time, and ensure compliance with all necessary regulations.
The Perseverance Law team is here to assist if you have questions about upcoming international travel. Below are some updated travel tips to help you prepare.
Are Your Travel Documents Valid?
Much of the preparation for travel takes place well before your departure date. In many cases, you may need several weeks or even months to ensure your travel documents are ready. Here’s a checklist of documents to review and validate before traveling:
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel dates.
- For U.S. nonimmigrants: If your passport expires before the date indicated on your Form I-797 Approval Notice, your I-94 expiration may match your passport’s validity, potentially shortening your authorized stay.
- Visa Stamps: Most nonimmigrant workers need a valid visa stamp for their category to re-enter the U.S.
- Expired visa: If your visa has expired, apply for a new one at a U.S. embassy or consulate before returning.
- Plan Ahead: Schedule visa appointments early via the DOS website and complete your DS-160 online. Be aware:
- U.S. consulates may still operate at reduced capacity in some countries.
- Holiday travel demand could lead to longer wait times for appointments.
- “Administrative processing” may cause unexpected delays post-appointment.
- I-797 Approval & Petition: If you are on a nonimmigrant employment-based petition, ensure you have:
- Your most recent Form I-797 Approval Notice.
- A full copy of your employer’s nonimmigrant petition. Contact your Perseverance Law team if you need a copy.
- L-1 Blanket Petition Applicants: Carry your original, stamped Form I-129S, endorsed by an immigration officer.
- Proof of Continuing Employment: Bring supporting documents to confirm your current employment:
- Three most recent pay stubs.
- An Employment Verification Letter from your HR department.
- Permanent Residents & Applicants for Permanent Residency:
- Green Card Holders: Carry your Green Card and ensure it is unexpired and undamaged.
- Pending Adjustment of Status Applications: Carry a valid Advance Parole document or an eligible visa (e.g., H-1B or L-1).
- Important: If you have a pending Advance Parole application, wait for approval before traveling internationally. Leaving the U.S. may result in the denial of your pending application.
Are You Transiting Through Other Countries?
If your itinerary includes a layover or transit through another country, ensure you have the required documents or visas for that region. Visa and transit rules vary by country. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact your Perseverance Law team for assistance.
Anticipate Travel Delays
International travel can often bring unexpected delays. To minimize stress, here are some tips:
- Add extra time for U.S. Customs inspections, security checkpoints, and potential immigration reviews.
- Book refundable or flexible travel plans that allow rescheduling if necessary.
- Notify your HR team and manager about your travel plans and inform them of any possible delays.
Returning to the U.S.
Depending on your destination and length of stay, you may experience additional questioning at the U.S. Port of Entry. Here’s how to prepare:
- Questions from U.S. Customs: Be ready to answer questions such as:
- Who is your employer?
- What is your job title?
- What do you do in the U.S.?
- How long do you plan to stay?
Tips:
- Review the details of your most recently filed visa petition to ensure accuracy.
- If you’re unsure of an answer, it’s better to say so truthfully than to guess.
- Contacting Perseverance Law at U.S. Entry:
While you do not have the right to an attorney at the Port of Entry, carefully note any issues raised by an immigration official. If permitted, contact your Perseverance Law legal team for assistance:- Chicago Office: 312-722-6300
- Cincinnati Office: 513-381-2011
- San Francisco Office: 415-771-7500
- Check Your I-94 Arrival Record:
Once admitted to the U.S., check your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record online at i94.cbp.dhs.gov > Get Most Recent I-94. Verify that your status and expiration date are correct.- If you notice any errors or have concerns, contact your Perseverance Law team immediately.
- Upload your I-94 records (and updated visas, if applicable) to your Envoy account for monitoring.
Final Notes
Proactive planning and preparation are key to ensuring smooth international travel. If you have any questions about your travel documents, immigration status, or potential delays, don’t hesitate to contact your Perseverance Law team for support.
Safe travels and happy holidays from the Perseverance Law Family!