Written By: McEntee Law Group, Anna Potter, Liz Mascio

Documents You Need When Traveling Internationally

 

If you’re an O-1 visa holder planning to travel internationally, it’s important to make sure you have the right documents in hand to ensure a smooth return to the U.S. Whether you’re traveling for business, a vacation, or visiting family, being prepared will save you stress and time at the border.

 

At McEntee Law Group, we’ve put together a quick guide to help you prepare your documents before you go, so you can return to the U.S. confidently and without unnecessary delays.

 

Carry Your I-797 Approval Notice

 

Your I-797 approval notice is the document that proves your O-1 visa status. This original approval form is essential for reentry into the U.S. when traveling abroad. Make sure to always carry the original document with you when traveling internationally. We can’t stress enough the importance of keeping this document safe—it’s your key to returning under your O-1 status.

 

Check Your Passport’s Validity

 

Your passport is another critical document for international travel. Ideally, your passport should be valid for at least six months before its expiration date. But here’s a bonus tip: it’s even better if your passport is valid for the entire duration of your O-1 visa status. This eliminates potential complications at the border and makes your reentry process smoother.

 

Ensure Your O-1 Visa Stamp Is Up to Date

 

Before heading out, double-check that your O-1 visa stamp in your passport is still valid and will be valid on the date you plan to return to the U.S. You’ll need this visa stamp to reenter the U.S. from abroad. If your visa stamp has expired, be sure to make an appointment to apply for a new visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate or Embassy abroad before you return to the U.S.

If you’re a Canadian citizen, you’re in luck! Canadians are exempt from the U.S. visa stamping requirement for O-1 visas, so you won’t need this stamp for reentry.

 

Carry Your Full Work Itinerary (for Multiple Employers)

 

If you’re working for multiple employers, carrying a full and detailed itinerary with you is essential. This itinerary should outline your work commitments and travel plans in the U.S. Immigration officials may ask for it, and it helps to have this documentation ready to show that you’re complying with your O-1 visa terms.

 

Bring Your Three Most Recent Pay Stubs

 

To further demonstrate that you’ve been maintaining your O-1 visa status, carry your three most recent pay stubs from your U.S. employer. Immigration officers may ask for proof that you’re still employed under the terms of your O-1 visa, and these pay stubs provide that evidence. It’s a small step that goes a long way in confirming your active status.

 

Bonus Tip: Carry a Copy of Your Full O-1 Visa Filing

 

While it may seem cumbersome, we recommend carrying a copy of your full O-1 filing. This is the complete filing that was submitted to USCIS obtain your O-1 approval. Having a copy on hand is just good practice, especially when traveling internationally. You may not need to show it, but it’s better to be over-prepared if any questions arise about your visa status.

Check Your I-94 When You Return to the U.S.

 

After you reenter the U.S., be sure to check your I-94 online to ensure you were properly admitted back in O-1 status and for the correct validity period. The I-94 is so important because it governs your lawful status in the U.S. It’s good to get into the habit of checking it every single time you return to the U.S. from international travels!

 

Safe Travels!

 

By following these simple travel tips, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your O-1 visa documents are in order. At McEntee Law Group, we’re dedicated to supporting you through all your immigration needs, whether you’re traveling, changing employers, or renewing your visa.

 

If you need assistance with your O-1 visa or have any questions about traveling under your visa status, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team. We’re here to help ensure your travels are smooth and stress-free.

 

Contact us today for experienced advice on O-1 visas and all your immigration needs.

 

 

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