Travel Plans For H1b Visa Holders: Us Virgin Islands

There is some discrepancy in the sources as to whether an H1B visa holder can travel to the US Virgin Islands without a visa stamp. Some sources state that a valid passport and I-797 form are sufficient, while others suggest that a visa stamp is required. It is important to note that travel to the British Virgin Islands is not recommended, as it is considered international travel and may require a visa stamp. When travelling back to the mainland US, individuals may need to provide proof of eligibility to be in the US, such as an I-797 form or other relevant documentation.

H1-B holders can travel to the US Virgin Islands without a visa stamp

H1-B visa holders can travel to the US Virgin Islands without a visa stamp in their passport. However, they will need to present other forms of documentation to prove their eligibility to be in the US. This includes a valid passport, I-797/I-94, and possibly their original H1-B petition.

When travelling from the US Virgin Islands back to the US mainland, individuals will go through a standard immigration process. They will need to present their passport and proof of eligibility to enter the US. This can include an I-797 notice of action for a visa extension, even if the H1-B visa has expired. It is recommended to also carry other proof of employment, such as recent payslips and an offer letter.

It is important to note that some sources suggest that travelling to the US Virgin Islands with an expired H1-B visa may cause complications upon re-entry to the US. Therefore, it is advisable to carry all necessary documentation and to check with the relevant authorities before travelling.

Additionally, when booking flights, individuals should ensure that their return flight lands at a domestic terminal in the US. This will prevent the need to go through immigration in the US upon arrival.

A valid passport is required for travel to the US Virgin Islands

Firstly, it depends on whether you are a US citizen or not. If you are a US citizen, a passport is not required, but it is still useful to have as it serves as the best form of identification when travelling. However, you must be prepared to show evidence of your US citizenship when departing the islands. This can include a government-issued photo ID, like a driver's license, or a raised-seal birth certificate.

If you are not a US citizen, then a valid passport issued by your country of origin is required, along with any necessary visas or travel authorisations.

It is also important to note that the US Virgin Islands are distinct from the British Virgin Islands, which are a separate territory. Travel between these two territories is considered international travel and will require a valid passport.

Furthermore, if you are an H1B visa holder, it is recommended that you carry your original H1B petition or approval notice with you when travelling to the US Virgin Islands, as you may be asked to provide proof of your eligibility to be in the US upon departure. While a valid passport is important, having additional relevant documentation can help ensure a smooth travel experience.

A US driver's license is sufficient for travel to Puerto Rico

If you're an H1B holder and want to travel to the US Virgin Islands, you may not need a US visa stamp. However, it is recommended that you carry your passport and original H1B petition or a copy of your I-797 for your H1-B petition. You will need to produce these documents upon re-entry into the US mainland, as you will be going through immigration.

Now, if you are a US driver's license holder, you can use this to travel to Puerto Rico. This is because Puerto Rico is a US territory, so the same driving rules apply as in the mainland US. You won't need an International Driving Permit (IDP) unless you are an international visitor.

If you are a US citizen, your US driver's license is sufficient to drive in Puerto Rico. You won't need to obtain a Puerto Rico driver's license for short-term visits. However, if you are planning an extended stay or establishing residency, you will need to get a Puerto Rico driver's license within 30 days of registering for residency. This involves fees, medical certification, and proof of income, as required by law.

If you are an international visitor, you can drive in Puerto Rico with your home country license and an IDP or a Real ID Act-compliant license.

So, to summarise, a US driver's license is sufficient for travel to Puerto Rico, but there are different requirements for extended stays or if you are an international visitor.

A valid I-94 is required for re-entry to the mainland US

If you are an H1B visa holder and a Russian citizen, you will need to obtain a stamp/visa when returning from a US territory to the mainland US. This includes the US Virgin Islands.

When travelling from the US Virgin Islands to the mainland US, you will need to prove your eligibility to be in the US. This means that a valid I-94 is required for re-entry to the mainland US. You will also need to present your passport and proof of your H1B status, such as an I-797 notice of action for visa renewal or your original H1B petition.

The I-94 is an Arrival/Departure Record issued by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is now processed electronically, and travellers can access their records online. However, if you would like a paper form, you can print one from the CBP website or request one during the inspection process.

In addition to the I-94, it is recommended that you carry a few copies of your I-797 form with you. While travelling to the US Virgin Islands from the mainland US, you may only need a driver's licence (with a Real ID) for identification. However, upon your return, you will need to go through the full immigration experience, including presenting the required documentation.

Therefore, it is crucial to have a valid I-94, along with other necessary documents, when returning to the mainland US from the US Virgin Islands to ensure a smooth re-entry process.

H1-B holders may need to carry their original H1-B petition

H1-B holders should carry their original I-797 approval notice for their H1-B petition, as well as a couple of copies. They should also carry their passport, which must be valid for at least six months into the future. Additionally, H1-B holders may need to carry a valid H-1B visa stamp in their passport. This is required for all international scholars and employees, except for Canadian citizens.

H1-B holders may also need to carry proof of continued employment, such as an updated letter and/or copy of their most recent pay statement. They should also carry their original I-94, which can be accessed and printed from the CBP website. It is also important to note that H1-B holders should not travel outside of the US during a pending change of status H-1B petition.

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