Required Documents for H-1B Travel
To re-enter the U.S. in H-1B status and resume employment, bring the following documents:
- Passport valid for six months beyond the duration of H-1B status (see dates on the I-797 approval notice)
- I-797 approval notice, original version (contact Berkeley International Office if the original version was lost or damaged)
- Letter verifying current employment from employing department (confirming continued employment, job title, annual salary, and dates of employment as listed on your I-797 H-1B approval notice), dated within one month of the visa interview or re-entry
- Most recent UC Berkeley pay statements (last 3 months)
- H-1B valid visa stamp (not necessary for Canadian citizens)
Additionally, for applying for a visa, additional documents may be needed:
- Copies of forms I-129
- Copy of Certified Labor Condition Application filed on the employee's behalf by the Berkeley International Office
- Curriculum vitae
- Additional documents may be required, check with embassy. These may include evidence of meeting required qualifications etc.
If your visa has expired or you have changed your status to H-1B within the U.S. :
Obtain an H-1B visa stamp at a U.S. Consulate before returning to the U.S. Present the above-mentioned travel documents to the consulate.
If you have a valid H-1B visa issued with a prior employer's name:
The visa remains valid until the date of its expiration. H-1B employees who change employers in the U.S. may use the previously issued H-1B visa to apply for admission to the U.S. if the dates are still valid. Employees must carry all the other travel-related documents to re-enter the country successfully.
US Department of State Announces New Domestic Visa Renewal Pilot Program:
- The US Department of State has posted information and FAQs on the pilot program to allow certain H-1B nonimmigrants to renew their visas in the U.S. Applications will be accepted from January 29, 2024 to April 1, 2024, or until all application slots are filled, whichever comes first. See the US Department of State website: Domestic Renewal of H-1B Visas for Certain Applicants
- Eligibility is limited to a narrow group of individuals. Individuals can check if they are eligible for this program by using the Navigator Tool on the website that says "Am I Eligible for Domestic Renewal". Individuals who do not meet the requirements, or those who choose not to participate in the pilot program, may continue to apply for visa renewal at a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas.