Can I travel to other countries and return to the US while my L-1 is active?

Yes. Holders of a valid L-1 with their documentation in order can generally leave the United States, visit other countries, and reenter without major issues. The visa allows this flexibility of coming and going as long as the status remains in good standing.

That said, a few precautions can help avoid complications at reentry. Before traveling, confirm that your passport and visa are still valid and that your admission record is current. Keep in mind that the final decision on entry always rests with the immigration officer at the port of arrival, who may ask questions about the purpose of your trip, so keep your documents organized and be ready to explain the reason for your travel.

• Keep your passport, visa, and admission record valid and up to date.
• Carry documents that demonstrate your ties to the company and your role.
• Final admission always depends on the officer at the port of entry.

Because border rules and policies can change, check the latest guidance from official sources (USCIS and the Department of State) and, when in doubt, consult a specialist before any sensitive trips.

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.