H1B visa extension.. Do I need to go for stamping ?

[prakash.konakanchi]

Hi folks,

I am on a H1B visa and my visa is going to expire on 18th of september 2016. I am on India currently on a family trip and now I am planning to go back next weekend. My visa extension is approved for next 3 years and I have got my I-797 copy as well. My existing visa is not yet expired and is valid for another 18 days. So, if I have to travel back to US now, should I go to visa stamping with the new I-797 or can I go ahead with my existing un-expired visa and the visa extension approval document ? Requesting your help and suggestions asap, as I have to plan the travel accordingly.

Thank you,
Prakash.

[Uranium243]

Hi Prakash, Not sure if you found the answer, but when you do, will kindly update this thread with what you did, so that others may benefit? Thanks!

[raghvi]

Hi folks,

I am on a H1B visa and my visa is going to expire on 18th of september 2016. I am on India currently on a family trip and now I am planning to go back next weekend. My visa extension is approved for next 3 years and I have got my I-797 copy as well. My existing visa is not yet expired and is valid for another 18 days. So, if I have to travel back to US now, should I go to visa stamping with the new I-797 or can I go ahead with my existing un-expired visa and the visa extension approval document ? Requesting your help and suggestions asap, as I have to plan the travel accordingly.

Thank you,
Prakash.

Though you can travel, but you would most likely be questioned as to why you did not get a new visa, and be given an I-94 only till 18-Sep-2016 when you enter US. In that case you would need to reapply for extension of I-94 as soon as you enter.

This is my opinion not legal advice.