Travel for Employees & Scholars

It is strongly recommended that you always carry your original documents when traveling internationally. It is also recommended that you scan/photograph/email/save e-copies of your documents. Review OIA's additional Travel Tips before you depart the U.S.

J-1 Scholars and their dependents

  • Form DS-2019
  • Travel signature
  • Valid J-1/ J-2 visa
  • Passport (valid at least 6 months into the future)
  • Copy of offer or invitation letter, or employment verification letter from department
  • If you will be out of the U.S. for more than 30 days, submit an Out of Country request that an OOC designation be added to your SEVIS record. 

H-1B Employees and their dependents

  • Original, unexpired Form I-797 Approval Notice
  • Valid H-1B/H-4 visa
  • Passport (valid at least 6 months into the future)
  • Copy of H-1B petition which includes Form I-129, Labor Condition Application, and supporting documents
  • Copy of offer letter or employment verification letter from department

E-3 Employees and their dependents

  • Copy of E-3 support letter issued by OIA, if you obtained status by travel
  • Copy of petition filed to USCIS, if your status was changed/extended by USCIS
  • Valid E-3 visa
  • Copy of certified Labor Condition Application
  • Passport (valid at least 6 months into the future)
  • Copy of offer or employment verification letter from department

TN Employees and their dependents

NOTE:  Please visit our section on Automatic Visa Revalidation if you are traveling to Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean islands.