We know many of you plan to travel internationally as the holiday season begins. Whether you’re traveling to visit family, for work, or a much-needed vacation, keep the following considerations in mind this year:
DOUBLE-CHECK YOUR DOCUMENTS
Before you pack your bags, make sure these essentials are ready to go:
- Passports: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
- Visa stamp: Confirm your visa is valid and appropriate for re-entry.
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Carry your valid EAD card, if applicable.
- Proof of Ties: Bring supporting documents to demonstrate your purpose for returning to the U.S. (These are general recommendations; the government may request other documentation).
- For work statuses (i.e., H-1Bs, TNs, and Os): Approval notice (e.g., Form I-797), employment verification (such as a verification of employment letter obtained from your department and/or pay stubs).
- For exchange statuses: Form DS-2019 with current travel endorsement from IFSS, proof of financial support, evidence of ties to your home country, evidence of acceptance into the program, and SEVIS fee payment receipt.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Holiday travel frequently comes with delays, but international travelers face extra hurdles. Be prepared to deal with extended wait times that may be caused by:
- Visa Processing Backlogs: Expect delays or limited availability for visa renewals and initial issuances of visas at U.S. consulates abroad during the holiday rush. Visa wait times vary by embassy or consulate, so you must plan accordingly. Please see the U.S. Department of State website to schedule your visa interview.
- Backlogs at the U.S. Border: The volume of travelers may lead to longer processing times at airports and ports of entry. Please remember that the job of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents demands that they ask questions that may feel intrusive or unwelcome.
- Last Minute Travel Adjustments: Monitor weather and travel alerts for all travel destinations to prepare for any possible changes in your itinerary, including at your layover destinations. Also, pay close attention to any advisories from your airline for last-minute changes. Many airlines offer updates via text messages to travelers who enroll in this service. It may be worth the extra money to purchase Wi-Fi connectivity during a long flight to monitor any delays or changes to connecting flights.
HEALTH PROTOCOLS ARE STILL ONGOING
While COVID-19 restrictions have eased, some countries or airlines may still have health protocols in place. Other enhanced protocols, including vaccination or testing mandates, have been applied this fall due to outbreaks of infectious diseases such as mpox and Marburg virus. Stay informed about public health requirements for your destination, countries of transit, and re-entry into the United States to avoid unexpected surprises during your trip.
TIPS FOR A RELAXED RE-ENTRY
We recommend following these strategies for better preparedness upon re-entry into the U.S.
- Engaging with CBP: Upon re-entry, be prepared to present all necessary documents and answer CBP questions about the purpose of your trip. Have all the required paperwork easily accessible. Be pleasant and respectful; hopefully, this will be reciprocated during the interview.
- I-94 Arrival Record: Upon clearance by CBP, your passport may be stamped to show the date and class of your admission along with the expiration date of your authorized stay. If you do not receive a passport stamp, there is no need to worry. Your entry information should be logged into CBP’s online record system, and your I-94 arrival record should be updated. Please review your I-94 upon entry to ensure accuracy and immediately inform IFSS of any errors. You may retrieve your I-94 here.
DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATORS: BE PREPARED FOR EMPLOYEE TRAVEL
Department administrators, this is a good time to check in with foreign national employees to find out whether they plan international travel during the winter break and advise them about the next steps. Ensure H-1B, O-1, TN, and other employees and foreign nationals have the necessary documents, know about deadlines, and encourage them to plan for delays. If you have employees with pending applications or other immigration concerns, please let us know so we can help.
The holidays should be a time for celebration, not stress. To avoid any problems with your travel, please make sure your documents are in order and let us know if you have any concerns about your upcoming trip.
All of us at IFSS wish you and your loved ones a safe, happy holiday season and a smooth journey to and from wherever your travels take you!