Can I travel to Alaska during I-94 extension period?

[anamika123]

Hi All

My h1B visa expired on 15th March 2012. I applied for I-94 extension and it got approved from USCIS and I received a new petition and new I-94 till 16th March 2015. But the visa stamp on my passport shows expired date of 15th March 2012.

I am planning to go for a Alaska trip (direct flight from Missouri to Anchorage and back) in July. I want to know whether I can travel to Alaska during the extension period, as Alaska is a state not in mainland USA. Also, do I need to surrender my I-94 at the airport while leaving for Alaska? Is there any customs/ immigration check while travelling to Alaska?

Also, do I require to carry any special documents apart from the passport, new petition and new I-94?

Thanks
Anamika

[kabkaba]

No, as long as you don't visit any other country in between, travel to any US state (Alaska, Hawaii) or territory (Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands etc.) does not require a Visa and is not considered international travel.

[anamika123]

Ok. Thanks for the reply.

One more question - in case my flight makes an emergency layover in any Canadian airport, and I need to wait at the airport, then will it be considered as being travelled out of USA? Will I need to through immigration check for re-entering?

Thanks
Anamika

[kabkaba]

Possibly, but you still don't need a Visa. Keep your passport and approval notice with you.