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 on Form DS2019
- 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
- Copy of TN support letter issued by OIA
- Valid TN/TD visa (for Mexican citizens only; Canadians exempt from visa requirement)
- Passport (valid at least 6 months into the future)
- Copy of offer or employment verification letter from department
NOTE: Please visit our section on Automatic Visa Revalidation if you are traveling to Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean islands.