Do I need to travel with the original I-797?

In general, yes: traveling with the original I-797 is usually the most prudent approach. This document, issued by USCIS, serves as proof of approval for your H-1B petition and may be required at several points, especially when entering the United States.

Even if you have a copy on hand, immigration officers may request the original document to verify the authenticity and validity of the information. Having the original with you helps avoid complications with border authorities.

It is worth noting that requirements can vary depending on the situation of each case and the guidelines in effect at the time. For this reason, keep the document safe and treat it as an important item in your travel documents.

Before traveling, the best course of action is to check the most current guidance from USCIS and other official agencies, or consult a specialist, to confirm exactly what you need to bring in your specific case.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.