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Survival Guide

Travel Information

O-1 employees and their O-3 visa dependents desiring to travel outside the U.S. should make sure they have all the proper documentation prior to traveling. See Quick Links box to right for pdf on O-1 Checklist for Travel Outside the U.S.

Please note: All O-1 and O-3 non-immigrants should consult with ISSS if they desire to travel while a change of status, or extension/amendment petition is pending with USCIS. Their travel could have a negative impact on these filings.

Departments and scholars should be aware that travel and subsequent application for a visa stamp may trigger security clearance delays for incoming scholars. You can read about security clearance delays or “administrative processing” here. (link to pre-arrival/security clearance delays page).

Departments must write a letter on behalf of the O-1 employee verifying their O-1 employment and verifying that they are returning to the U.S. to resume that employment. You may be required to write two letters, one to Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and another to the U.S. Consulate, if the O-1 is required to obtain an O-1 visa stamp while abroad. See Quick Links box to right for template letters.