2024 Holiday Travel Tips: Be Prepared for International Travel
With the holidays fast approaching, international travel may be on your mind. Planning your trip can be exciting but also stressful. Preparing for current immigration requirements will reduce stress, save valuable time, and ensure compliance with all necessary regulations.
The CIP legal team will gladly assist if you have questions about upcoming international travel.
Here are some updated holiday travel tips to help you prepare.
Are Your Travel Documents Valid?
Much of the preparation for travel takes place well before your departure date. Sometimes, you may need several weeks or even months to ensure your travel documents are ready when you are. Here is a checklist of documents you should review and validate before traveling:
Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel dates.
- For US 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 date, which could shorten your authorized stay.
Visa Stamps: Most nonimmigrant workers need a valid visa stamp for their category to re-enter the US.
- If your visa has expired, you must apply for a new one at a US embassy or consulate before returning.
- Plan Ahead: Schedule visa appointments early using the DOS website and complete your DS-160 application online. Be aware that:
- US consulates may still operate at reduced capacity in some countries.
- Holiday travel demand could result in longer wait times for visa appointments.
- Increased “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 CIP legal 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, such as:
- 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 international travel. Departing the US 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 applicable to that region.
- Visa and transit rules vary by country. If you have questions, contact your CIP legal team for assistance.
Anticipate Travel Delays
International travel can bring unexpected delays. Reduce stress by planning ahead:
- Add extra time to your trip for US Customs inspections, security checkpoints, and potential immigration reviews.
- Book refundable or flexible travel plans that allow rescheduling if needed.
- Notify your HR team and manager about your travel plans, and inform them of any possible delays.
Returning to the US
Depending on your destination and length of stay, you may experience additional questioning at the US Port of Entry. Here is how to prepare:
Questions from US Customs
- Be ready to answer questions about your immigration status, such as:
- Who is your employer?
- What is your job title?
- What do you do in the US?
- How long do you plan to stay?
Tips:
- Review the details of your most recently filed visa petition to ensure accuracy and consistency.
- If you are unsure of an answer, it is better to say so truthfully than to guess.
Contacting CIP at US 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 allowed, contact your CIP 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 US:
- 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.
- Contact your CIP legal team immediately if you notice any errors or have concerns.
- Upload your and your family members’ 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, contact your CIP legal team for support.
Safe travels and happy holidays from the Corporate Immigration Partners Family!
