A new H1B extension recently approved should translate to trouble-free travel, shouldn’t it? That was what one visa holder believed until they came across contradictory information online—questioning whether a new visa stamp would be necessary prior to re-entry into the U.S.
The visitor had no issues at immigration upon return, showing the I-797A approval notice and passport. However, their visa page continues to reflect the original expiration date, leading them to suspect that they skipped some critical step.
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Now, with a last-minute return to their home country, they are not certain if they should obtain another visa stamp to return. As immigration admitted them without difficulty the first time, will it be an issue the next time?
Visa regulations are complicated, particularly when web sources provide conflicting responses. While an approved extension permits ongoing residence in the U.S., a visa stamp is typically necessary for re-entry upon returning from overseas travel.
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In others, CBP officers will take the I-797A for re-entry, although this is not always the case. The best course of action is to verify with an immigration lawyer or the U.S. embassy prior to making travel arrangements.
For individuals in a similar predicament, going by what has happened in the past is not enough. Immigration regulations evolve, and once something might have worked does not mean that it will once again—so it’s always best to be prepared.
