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How to Apply Canada Visitor Visa (with Sample Travel Itinerary)

Canada visitor visa application for 10 yrs or passport expiry date. Biometric required. Online application faster without interview. Sample Travel Itinerary.

Canada visitor visas can be obtained without even a visa interview. Canada has a very streamlined process to send your passport and get the stamped visitor visa by postal mail.

Canada visa officer will decide if an interview is required for your specific case and call you if one is needed.

If you have any US visa stamped in your current or old passport like a US B1/B2 or any work visa like H1B, L visa, the chances are very high that you will get a Canadian visitor visa without an interview.

This article will discuss:

Documents Required

Visa processing time, sample travel itinerary.

#1 Passport

All old expired and current valid passport color copies.

Scan the following pages preferably using your smartphone app or a scanner at home:

• Frontpage showing your photo
• Last page showing your address
• All existing entry-exit stamps in the passport
• All valid or expired visa stamps from any country

You can use various apps and cloud storage services to scan and keep all your visa documents easily accessible .

#2 Bank statement

Showing last 3-month bank balance.

Make sure you have enough money to pay for your Canada trip as per your itinerary.

I suggest using your salary account which shows pay credits.

#3 Employment Letter

If you are currently employed in your country, an employment verification letter is recommended.

#4 Current Country Valid Status

If you are applying for a Canadian visa in a country that is not the same as your passport, then you need to provide proof of valid status.

If you are working in the US on an H1B visa with an Indian passport, you need to provide your valid H1B i797 copy as proof.

#5 Scanned Photograph

You can get your passport-size photo created online as you would need it for uploading with your application.

Your photo will be taken again at the VFS center.

#6 Application for Visitor Visa (Temporary resident Visa) – IMM 5257

#7 Application for Temporary Residence – IMM 5257 Schedule 1

#8 Family Information Form – IMM 5645

#9 Last 3 months Pay Slips

#10 Marriage Certificate (if married) and applying as a family

#11 Travel Itinerary – The sample is given below

#12 Visa Fees Payment Receipt

You can pay online by credit/debit card.

There are no extra surcharges but it may vary based on the country you are applying from.

Online Process

#1 Create an account on the Canada CIC website .

If you already have a login, you can simply sign in using your GCKey (basically the Canadian CIC website password).

The solution to log-in loop error Canada CIC website .

#2 Upload all required documents and apply.

#3 An email is received for the biometric letter.

Print the Biometric letter and make an appointment.

You get 30 days to give your fingerprints after the Biometric letter has been generated. The last date will be mentioned in the letter too.

• If you are outside Canada or the United States, you can go to any Visa Application Centre (VAC) .
• If you are in the United States, you may go to a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Application Support Center (ASC) or a Visa Application Centre (VAC) .

What to expect at USCIS ASC Center biometric experience in the USA .

#4 Once biometrics is done, you will wait for a decision on your application.

#5 You will get an email once a decision is made. You will be asked to submit your passport.

Passport Request Letter

Once the visa officer has processed your application, you will get an email and a letter will be available in your CIC dashboard.

The chances are 99% that your visa has been approved if you get a passport submission request.

You can submit your passport within 30 days of the passport request.

#6 Submit your passport.

You can expect your passport back with a visa stamp within 1-3 working days.

The Canada visitor visa processing time is 21-40 calendar days.

This timeline is shown from a real Canada visitor application where the application was submitted online on Sep 15.

Biometric was completed on Sep 23 at the VFS Canada Application Center in Sydney, Australia.

Travel Itinerary

PURPOSE : My purpose is to take a short tourism trip to see Niagara Falls from the Canadian side while going to the USA. 

Here is what I plan to do: Sep 16 – Take a flight from Sydney, Australia to Toronto, Canada. 

Sep 17 – Arrive in Canada. I plan to stay at the Holiday Inn in Niagara Falls.

am22tech.com

Sep 18 – Visit CN tower in the morning. Visit Niagara Falls on the Canadian side in the afternoon. 

Sep 19 – Take a flight from Canada to Dallas, USA

Please note that in the event I do not obtain a Canadian visitor visa in time to be able to book the flight tickets for these dates, I will plan to visit Canada from the USA if I have a visitor visa at that time.

Trip Cost Planning

You will need biometrics if you have never given your fingerprints for any Canadian Visa in the last 10 years.

Canadian biometrics is valid for 10 years.

Canadian Biometric fees are CAD $85 at this time and CAD $170 if applying with a family.

You need a biometric appointment. VFS manages the biometric process for a Canadian visa. It takes about 15 minutes to take fingerprints but waiting time depends on each VFS center and their individual workload.

Online Canadian visitor visa application is faster than physical application by at least 10 working days. Your application saves time on postal mail and you can get your visa faster.

A Canadian visitor visa is issued for 10 years or up to the passport validity date. Example: If your passport validity is less than 10 years, then the Canada visitor visa validity date will be the same as your passport expiry date.

How to Download Canada Visa Biometric Appointment, Collection Letter?

B1/B2 Visitor Visa Documents, Sponsor Parents (H1B, L Workers)

Canada Open Work Permit for US H1B visa holders

USCIS Application Withdrawal Letter with Receipt Barcode

Canada Visa VFS Global Email Update Messages Meaning

Bank Account Verification Letter (for Visa, Immigration)

Language selection

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Who can apply

H-1b visa holders can no longer apply.

We reached the maximum of 10,000 applications for this initiative on July 17, 2023.

Family members of H-1B visa applicants

Family members of H-1B visa applicants who have already applied can apply to come to Canada as a visitor, worker or student .

The deadline for family members to submit open work permit applications under this public policy is September 27, 2024. There's no deadline for visitor or student applications.

To qualify for this temporary policy, you need to

• have a valid H-1B Specialty Occupations visa and
• be living in the US when you apply

Bringing your family

These family members living in the US can apply to come with you to Canada:

• your spouse
• your common-law partner
• your dependent children

They can come as either

Family members who aren’t eligible to apply as family members of an H-1B applicant, may still qualify as family members of highly skilled workers.

Find out how to apply as a family member of a highly skilled worker .

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Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada

Most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada - not both. Some people may only need their valid passport. Answer a few questions to see what's right for you.

See all entry requirements by country/territory

You can find the country code on your passport. Be careful when you select your country. Some countries have multiple options and codes are quite similar.

Answer yes if you’re a citizen of Canada and another country.

Look on the front cover of your passport for the symbol of a rectangle with a circle in the middle. If you see this symbol, you have an electronic passport.

Answer: You need a visitor visa

For visits of up to 6 months for most purposes. Cost: CAN $100

Get details about visitor visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

For visits of up to 6 months or to transit via a Canadian airport. Cost: CAN $7

Get details about eTA Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid Canadian passport

You need a  valid Canadian passport  to travel to Canada by air (board your flight).

Exception: If you’re an American-Canadian dual citizen with a valid U.S. passport, you don’t need a Canadian passport to fly to Canada. However, you still need to  carry proper identification Opens in a new tab  and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada Opens in a new tab .

Get details about travelling as a dual Canadian citizen Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid passport or travel document to travel to Canada by car, train, bus or boat

If you decide to fly to a Canadian airport instead, you'll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Learn about documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need official proof of status in the U.S.

Lawful permanent residents of the U.S. must present these documents for all methods of travel to Canada:

• a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document ) and
• a valid green card (or equivalent valid proof of status in the United States)

Answer: You need a transit visa 

To connect between 2 international flights, in less than 48 hours. Cost: Free

Note: If you have more than 48 hours between international flights OR if you decide to visit Canada, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about transit visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You can apply for a parent and grandparent super visa to visit for more than 6 months

• The super visa is for visits of 5 years at a time .
• a letter from your child or grandchild with a promise to financially support you for the duration of your visit in Canada.
• More information on approved insurance providers outside of Canada will be available in the coming months.
• be valid for at least 1 year from the date of entry to Canada
• provide at least $100,000 in emergency coverage.
• You must apply for a super visa from outside Canada.
• Cost: CAN $100

Note : If you don't meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about super visa Opens in a new tab

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA). An eTA allows for visits of up to 6 months.

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with a valid identity document. Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with

• a valid passport from your country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document Opens in a new tab ) and
• official proof of lawful permanent resident status in the U.S., such as a green card

Answer: You need a valid identity document

Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

Learn about the documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for a visitor visa.

When you travel to Canada, bring your

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved, if you received one
• valid passport that has your visitor visa stuck to one of its pages

Learn about studying in Canada Opens in a new tab

Answer: You should already have a valid visitor visa

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first study or work permit.

If you leave and return to Canada,  you must travel with:

• your valid study or work permit
• If you don’t have a valid visa when you check-in for a flight, it may result in travel delays (or a missed flight).
• your valid passport

Exception : If you return directly from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

If your visa has expired or was only valid for a single entry to Canada

You need to  apply for a new visa Opens in a new tab .

• A visa costs CAN$100.
• It’s valid for up to 10 years.

If your study or work permit will expire soon, you must extend it before you can apply for a new visitor visa.

You need a visitor visa to leave and return to Canada.  Apply for your visa before you leave.

You can apply for a visitor visa from inside Canada if you meet all the conditions below:

• you’re already in Canada
• you hold a valid study or work permit
• you want to  leave and return to Canada  in the near future
• your existing  visitor visa Opens in a new tab  is expired or was valid for only one entry

Exception : If you return  directly  from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing times  don’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa Opens in a new tab

You need a  visitor visa  to travel to Canada.

A visitor visa:

• is a sticker we put in your passport
• costs CAN$100

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a study permit

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a study permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa for you

• letter of introduction that says your work permit application is approved, if you received one

Learn about working in Canada Opens in a new tab

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first work permit.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics)  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a work permit

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a work permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA)

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for an eTA.

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Answer: You need an eTA to leave and return to Canada

Your study permit lets you study in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

What you need depends on your travel plans.

If you re-enter by a Canadian airport (fly back to Canada)

You must have:

• the passport that’s linked to a valid eTA and
• your valid study permit
• costs CAN $7
• is electronically linked to your passport

If you received your current study permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

If you don’t have an eTA or yours has expired, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA.

Apply for an eTA Opens in a new tab

If you re-enter Canada by car, boat, bus or train

• a valid passport and

Answer: If you fly to a Canadian airport, you need an eTA

• costs CAN$7

Most applicants get their eTA approval (via an email) within minutes. However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you drive or arrive by train, bus or boat

You just need a  valid passport or travel document Opens in a new tab  to get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat.

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for you

• valid passport that you used to apply for your work permit

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Your work permit lets you work in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

• your valid work permit

If you received your current work permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

• your valid work or study permit

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work or study permit

When you travel to Canada, you must bring your:

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

If you’re driving or arriving by train, bus, or boat.

You just need to  bring the right travel documents Opens in a new tab .

If you fly to or transit through a Canadian airport

You just need to travel with your valid U.S. passport if you fly or transit through a Canadian airport.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit
• valid work or study permit

Answer: Your permit is not an eTA or a visa

When you extend your study permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• the passport that’s linked to your valid eTA  and
• a valid visitor and

Apply for visitor visa Opens in a new tab

When you extend your work permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• a valid visitor visa and

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

You can apply for an  eTA  if you travel to Canada  by air only .

• is only valid when flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport

Most applicants get their eTA approval within minutes (via email). However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa  you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If your travel plans change

You need a  visitor visa  (not an eTA) if you decide to  get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat  instead.

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit and
• official proof of U.S. lawful permanent resident status

Answer: You need valid proof of lawful permanent resident status of the U.S. to leave and return to Canada

• valid study permit,
• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit, and

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

• valid passport or travel document and

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit and
• valid work permit
• valid work permit,

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa , you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If you transit through Canada to or from the United States

You  may  be able to  transit through Canada without a visa or eTA if you meet certain eligibility requirements.

You need an official proof of status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., such as one of the following:

• valid permanent resident card (Form I-551)
• foreign passport with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (also known as an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication [ADIT] stamp)
• foreign passport with a temporary I-551 printed notation (“Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year”) on a machine-readable immigrant visa upon endorsement with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) or Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status)
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card [Green Card])
• valid re-entry permit (Form I-327)
• Form I-94 with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) and a passport-style photo

Important note:

This tool provides information only. It was created to assist you as you decide what travel document you may need to travel to Canada. This tool may not provide information on all travel documents or your particular situation. If you choose to apply, we will assess your application in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and its related Regulations. Read our complete terms and conditions (opens in a new tab) .

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Canada Work Permit Immigration Tips

Canada Immigration Guide for H1B Visa Holders

If you currently hold an H1B visa, whether residing in the United States or another country, you stand as a robust candidate for Canada’s immigration pathway. This route often proves to be a more efficient and expeditious alternative compared to pursuing a Green Card in the United States.

If you are considering moving to Canada, it’s important to learn about the various immigration options and their specific requirements. Explore the different pathways through which H1B visa holders can establish themselves in Canada as skilled foreign workers.

Immigration Options for H1B Visa Holders

1. express entry canada.

Under the Express Entry Program, if you are a highly skilled worker with experience in sectors such as healthcare, Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, Trade, Transport or Agriculture and agri-food occupations, there are three major federal Canadian economic immigration programs that you can apply to:

• Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)
• Federal Skilled Trades (FST)

If you meet the eligibility requirements for one of the programs managed by Express Entry, you can submit a profile to the Express Entry pool.

Once in the pool, your profile will receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on things like your age, level of education, and work experience. The highest-ranking candidates are issued invitations to apply (ITA) for permanent residence in periodic Express Entry draws.

As a skilled worker in the United States, you are most likely to meet the requirements for the Federal Skilled Worker program.

However, most Canadian provinces also offer pathways to permanent residence for skilled workers. While eligibility requirements and application procedures vary between provinces, there may be an option for you. If you are eligible for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), you can apply to the province for a provincial nomination.

If you are successful, you can then apply for Canadian permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

2. Provincial Nominee Programs (For Different Profiles)

Each of Canada’s thirteen provinces and territories operates its own immigration programs, called  Provincial Nominee Programs , or PNPs. As the provinces have different populations and economies, their immigration programs are unique and built to fit their economic and demographic needs.

PNPs are a popular option because they can be the fastest pathway to  Canadian permanent residence .

If you are nominated through a PNP which is aligned with Express Entry, you will receive an additional 600  Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)  points. This means you are essentially guaranteed to receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence in the next Express Entry draw.

Don’t know what your CRS score is?   Find out now using our CRS Score Calculator! 

There are several Provincial Nominee Programs available for individuals with experience in various sectors. Some of these provincial programs include the Ontario Human Capital Priorities Stream, the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP) of Quebec, , as well as the Alberta Opportunity Stream. Your eligibility for these programs depends on your education level and the sector in which you have experience.

Tech workers can discover specialized immigration pathways to Canada through various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), each uniquely catering to the needs of specific provinces. These programs offer harmonious routes for skilled professionals in the technology sector, ensuring a seamless integration into the Canadian workforce.

Some notable programs, such as the British Columbia PNP Tech and the Quebec Permanent Immigration Pilot Program, specifically target tech workers, focusing on areas like artificial intelligence, information technologies, and visual effects. These initiatives not only facilitate a smoother immigration process but also present opportunities for tech professionals to contribute their expertise to Canada’s thriving technological landscape.

If you are interested in receiving a personalized assessment of your options based on your profile, please complete our online assessment form.

Working in Canada as an H1B visa Holder

1. temporary foreign worker program (tfwp) – global talent stream.

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is a component of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) designed by the Canadian government to streamline the work permit process for certain Canadian employers, allowing them to compete globally.

Launched in 2017, the GTS operates through two categories: Category A, where employers must be referred by designated partners to hire unique and specialized talent, and Category B, which allows employers to hire highly-skilled foreign talent for specific occupations.

Common requirements for both categories include a $1000 CAD application fee, business legitimacy documentation, and a Labour Market Benefits Plan showcasing the impact on the Canadian labour market.

Successful applicants must obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before applying for a work permit. The application process involves securing a positive LMIA, followed by the employee’s application for a Canadian work permit.

2. International Mobility Program – Intra-Company Transfers

Canada’s International Mobility Program extends provisions for highly skilled foreign workers, to temporarily work in Canada as intra-company transferees. This opportunity allows employees of multinational companies in the U.S. to obtain an LMIA-exempt work permit and transfer to one of the company’s Canadian locations. To qualify, both the employee and the multinational company must meet some specific requirements:

For the Employee:

• Employment with a multinational company.
• The Canadian enterprise must have a qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate).
• Position at the executive level, senior managerial level, or requiring specialized knowledge.
• At least 1 year of full-time employment with the company in the previous 3 years.

For the Multinational Company:

• The enterprise outside Canada and the one inside must have a parent, subsidiary, branch, or affiliate relationship.
• Both enterprises must be actively engaged in providing goods and services regularly and continuously.

Furthermore, individuals working in the United States benefit from the CUSMA trade agreement, which offers additional Intra-Company Transfer options, creating valuable opportunities for qualified professionals.

In conclusion, exploring the various pathways for an H1B visa holder to Work or Immigrate to Canada can be a complex task. Whether you’re considering Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, International Mobility Program or Study in Canada, it’s essential to make informed decisions that align with your unique circumstances.

We understand that this process can be daunting, which is why we encourage you to reach out to the experts at Canadim. Our team of dedicated professionals can guide you in evaluating your options, tailoring them to your profile, experience, and the province you aspire to call home.

Don’t hesitate to take that first step towards your Canadian dream – contact us today, and let us help turn your immigration aspirations into reality.   Take our free immigration assessment to get started!

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UPDATE: Canada reaches cap of 10,000 applications for U.S. H-1B visa Open Work Permit stream

Update: The cap of 10,000 applications was reached on July 18, 2023. Click here to explore other Canadian visa options if you are an H-1B visa holder. The original story continues below.

As of today, those who hold a United States H-1B specialty occupation visa may be eligible to apply to work and live in Canada.

The measure was announced by Canada’s Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser, on June 27 and aims to improve labour mobility in North America. It may impact thousands of workers in high-tech industries in both Canada and the United States, as well as their immediate family members.

Those who are approved will receive an open work permit valid for up to three years. An open work permit means that they can work for almost any employer in Canada. This also applies to their spouses and dependents who can apply for work or study permits as needed.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) says the measure will last for either one year or until the cap of 10,000 applicants has been reached. This cap is on principal applicants and does not include family members.

Find out if you're eligible for Canadian immigration

Eligibility criteria for Canada's H-1B visa holder open work permit

To be eligible for Canada's H-1B visa holder open work permit, you need to:

• have a valid H-1B specialty occupation visa, and
• currently live in the U.S.

In order to apply for the open work permit, you need:

• a copy of your current H-1B visa
• Form I-797/I797B, Notice of Action (the letter from the U.S. government confirming your H-1B application was approved)
• proof that you live in the U.S. (such as Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, a recent utility bill, an income tax report, or any document that proves you live in the U.S.)

IRCC targeting STEM occupations

On June 28, IRCC announced that it would hold the first Express Entry draw for those with work experience in Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering (STEM) occupations . The draw is part of the category-based selection criteria announced by the Minister on May 31.

The department followed through on July 5 and invited 500 candidates with work experience in STEM, many of which may also be eligible for the new H-1B open work permit. Those who were invited were already in the Express Entry application pool.

There are five new Express Entry categories for those with work experience in specific occupational fields. The sixth category is for those with strong French language ability. The categories were chosen following research and discussion with IRCC partners and stakeholders as well as provincial and territorial governments who are likely to be more in tune with local labour shortages.

IRCC said inviting candidates through the Express Entry STEM category was a milestone in Canada’s commitment to attracting top global talent and remaining at the forefront of global research, development, and innovation.

For example, in Budget 2023 , Canada’s government announced that would invest $20 billion to support the building of major clean electricity and growth infrastructure projects. Much of this development will require the skills and knowledge of STEM professionals.

Canada’s tech talent attraction strategy

In addition to the 3-year open work permit for H-1B holders, IRCC is also working on developing a new Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program (IMP). Minister Fraser said the Innovation Stream will be launched by the end of this year.

The options for the stream are being developed and informed by the feedback of stakeholders received through several consultations in recent months.

There are two options under consideration

• Employer-specific work permits for up to five years for workers destined to work for a company identified by the Government of Canada as contributing to our industrial innovation goal
• Open work permits for up to five years for highly skilled workers in select in-demand occupations

Further, the minister announced a return to the 14-day service standard for work permits under the Global Skills Strategy , the promotion of Canada as a destination for digital nomads and improvements to the Start-up Visa Program such as more spots allocated and extending the length of the work permit from one to three years.

STEM job vacancies in Canada

The latest job vacancy data from Statistics Canada shows that there were 42,900 job vacancies in professional, scientific, and technical services in April, down by 7,700 (-15.2%) from March, and by 30,600 (-41.6%) from its peak of 73,600 in April 2022.

Ontario and Quebec continue to have the highest number of vacancies in the country. To help fill these vacancies, especially in the STEM sector, Ontario recently removed the Canadian work experience requirement for newcomers seeking licensure in engineering.

On June 30, Ontario's Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development also announced that regulated professions in Ontario will be required to make and communicate registration decisions on applications from internationally trained newcomers within six months. This measure aims to make it easier for skilled newcomers, especially in licensed professions such as some under STEM professions, to fill job vacancies and close the skills gap.

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H1B Visa stamping in Canada – step by step guide

Did you know in FY2014, as many as 70% of total 315,857 H1B Visas (including initial as well as continuing employment) were approved for people with Indian origin. Out of these, 138K renewed their H1B status in United States.  That’s a lot of people who have to undergo the ordeal of applying and then visiting a US consulate outside of US to get the passport stamped. Here is a step-by-step guide for H1B visa stamping in Canada.

Canada has always been a popular destination for US visa renewals and approvals. The two cities, Vancouver and Toronto , are usually preferred among the applicants from west coast and east coast residents respectively. There are five other US consulates across Canada you could choose from: Montreal, Ottawa, Quebec City, Halifax and Calgary.

Follow these steps to renew your visa in Canada:

• Get Canada Visitor Visa – You need to get this before you can travel to Canada. The process is quite smooth now and you can get it done within 15-20 days if done it right. You will have to fill up the application form online, pay the fees and wait for your approval by email. Once approved, you are required to send your passport to nearest Canada consulate to the visa stamped. Read this post for step-by-step guide to applying Canadian visitor visa..
• You should have a soft copy of  your latest photo not older than 6 months.
• For travel information, you can provide a tentative itinerary with address of any hotel in the city of Consulate. (For Vancouver, you could give Hyatt, Century Plaza. For Toronto, you could use Residence Inn’s address)
• When you file DS 160, you will have to chose a consulate .If you want to change the consulate later due to unavailability of dates, you have to edit your DS 160 and reflect the correct consulate. Post submission, DS 160 can still be edited within first 30 days. Refer link for more information.
• Take the printout of DS-160 confirmation page. Entire DS-160 form is not required.
• Schedule an appointment – Click on this link and provide your information along with DS-160 application number. There are long queues and wait times for appointments in Vancouver and Toronto, so plan accordingly. If you are looking for an early date, keep checking their website for any cancellations. In my experience, I have seen cancellations take place between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM in their respective timezones. Once appointment is confirmed, pay the MRV fees. You will get a confirmation mail with MRV receipt which you should carry along for the interview.
• Valid unexpired passport – Passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the expiration date of your intended status.
• DS-160 confirmation page.
• Visa application fees receipt.
•  Original Non-immigrant Visa Petition Approval Notice (Form I-797) (or similar).
• Copy of your employer’s Non-immigrant Visa Petition filed with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on your behalf.
• Original Educational Documents (a consular officer has the discretion to request original documents).
• Copy of Your Two Most Recent Paystubs.
• Original employment verification letter. The U.S. Consulates require that the letter should not be more than 30 days old at the time that it is presented at the visa application interview.
• Copy of I-140 Immigration petition for Alien worker (required if one is renewing his H1B visa beyond 6 years).
• Show me your EVL letter? (It is also sometimes referred to as LCA letter. This is the most important document as it has your designation and salary details).
• Whats the purpose of your visit to consulate? (I know its quite obvious but they still want to hear it from you).
• What’s your designation and describe your work/project?
• What’s your salary?
• What’s your educational qualification?
• Have you done master’s in US. If yes, where and when?
• Are you working at client’s place? Questions around your client company and project.
• How long have you been working for this employer
• Passport tracking and pickup – At the end of interview, visa officer will inform you if your visa was approved or not. If it was approved, follow this link to track your passport status. Or you could wait for an email on your registered email address asking you to pick up the passport (typically takes 2 or 3 business days). Until your visa is issued, your VISA status will be Administrative Processing on above link.  It’s just a temporary status as VISA is getting issued. Don’t PANIC at all as long as you have been told by officer that your VISA is approved.
• Hotel stay – Hotels in Vancouver downtown are quite expensive costing $150 on an average. You could choose to stay at Richmond which is about 30 mins by SkyTrain with affordable hotel rates. Richmond is also close to Airport.
• Public transport system of Vancouver city is amazing with skytains scheduled every 3-5 mins. Its easy to commute here without renting out a car.
• Consulate is located on Pender street  before Starbucks on the right hand side.
• Don’t carry any laptop bag or other electronics including car keys. If you do, shops located on opposite side of consulate charge 5$ to keep your bag while you are in consulate.
• If you want to try out amazing Indian food of Vancouver/Surrey, read this post .
• Hotel stay – Hotels in Toronto downtown are quite expensive too. There are quite a few options on AirBnB in the downtown area for a lot less.
• Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) provides subway, streetcar, and bus service within the City of Toronto. The connectivity is quite good around most of the downtown area

If you have something to add here that might be helpful, feel free to write to me at [email protected] or leave a comment below.

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70 thoughts on “H1B Visa stamping in Canada – step by step guide”

What is the worst that could happen if your VISA is not approved? Would you be put in admin hold and have to travel back to India to get stamping done? Or would you just need to stay in Canada for the duration as they verify your documentation and approve your VISA?

I have an approved petition for me and my wife. We just a baby so baby is an american citizen. Thinking of going to Canada for stamping once we have baby’s passport, trying to weigh the pros and cons.

If your visa is not approved, you can stay back in Canada as long as your Canadian visitor visa is valid. But in most cases, the administrative processing may take upto 4-6 weeks and staying back in Canada may not be the most financially optimal solution. You can otherwise spend some time in India with your family/friends and come back to US, when you get your H1B stamped again. Wish you all the best for your Visa stamping.

In case of Admin Processing legally can we stay in Canada till the time Visa is approved and work form there ?

I am also exploring the option of stamping h1-b visa for myself in canada, were you able to get more details on it, as in what are the steps to follow, if it does not get approved in canada.

Also does anyone knows that is there any eligibility for an indian citizen to get h1-b stamping in other countries eg canada or mexico? I currently have i797 approval until august 2017 and the last time i stamped visa in india, that stamping was valid only until May 2015, that is right now its more than 12 months that my visa is expired. So am I eligible to get stamping done in countries other than my home country?

Yes, you can get your Visa stamped in any US consulate other than your home country too. A lot of people in USA, opt for Canada or Mexico as they are close by. If your I797 is approved, you need not get a stamp unless you are planning to leave US borders. If you do have a plan, arrange for H1B stamping in either Canada or Mexico. Check with your employer or your employer’s legal team though before booking an appointment.

I live in US and applying my H1B visa in Singapore because of non-availability of dates in India as I wanted. When filling the DS 160 form, what is the Home address and Mailing address I need to give? Should it be my US address or India address or some friend address in Singapore? Can anyone please clarify if you have already done like this?

We live in Hartford, CT, I see Ottawa consulate is 7 hrs drive from my place. Is that okay to drive with US car to Ottawa? Anything to be considered, if i go to Ottawa rather than Toronto? Anyone has any suggestions , please help.

Thanks, Binnoy

i am on F1 Visa. I have got H1B approved. I am planning to go to Canada to get H1B stamped. Can you please suggest if I can go to Canada for H1B stamping and if yes would the above mentioned process holds good.

Awaiting for your reply

Yes you can. I just went to Calgary, Alberta and had stamping within a week. Stayed with Indian family with all inclusive. Cheaper than hotel and close to downtown consulate office.

Hi Varsha, I am sailing in the same boat. I am on F1 visa, need to get h1B stamped. Can you share any tips on the travel? Also, if you could share the contact details of that indian family, that would be really helpful.

Any Help of giving Indian family details and procedure for visa

Hi Varsha, Can you please email me about your experience for stamping H1B in calgary, Like how much time its take to get the passport stamped after interview and where we need to go to collect the passport and how was your travel and stay experience in calgary. We are planning to go there in March. Regards Sarika

I am recently approved for first H1B visa. Here is how i made visa transition in USA from B1/B2 to F1 to OPT to H1B in April 2016. Now i am planning to get my H1B visa stamping done in Canada. Is it advisable to go to Canada for first time H1B stamping? Have you ever heard that people got their first H1B stamping done in Canada?

Please advise. Thank You.

It is advisable to go to your home country for your first H1B stamping. However, you can still apply in Canada and I have known cases who got their first H1B approved in Canada itself. But keep in mind that in case of rejection, you will have to travel to your home country or arrange for a stay outside US until the stamping is done. Hope it helps.

The link for scheduling an appointment is not working. Can you please update it?

Thanks Sonam. The link is fixed now.

Hi , I have attended H1-B interview in Vancouver, Canada. I have got 221 G to submitted a scanned copy of my I-140 as my VISA is after 6 years renewal. VO asked many questions like my degree, Payslip , My job specifications. VO told I will get my passport with in 3 to 5 business days. I am waiting for my passport. Does any one have the same experience ? . will they send my passport with in 3 to 5 business days with VISA stamped. ?. I am in Vancouver came from US with my family.

it will be very hard time to me if I don’t get my passports as VO told.

In most cases, one should get their passport if VO told them so. Keep following up on their website or customer care for further information.

Hello Ajay Kumar,

I am planning to get my H1B Visa and Wife’s H4 visa stamped from Toronto, Canada. Can you share your experiences and how much time did it ultimately take to get back your Passport?

Hello, I have a couple of questions.

I got my H1B approved with a COS effective from October, 1st 2016. I need to travel Internationally and need to get the first visa H1B stamp on my passport.

1) I heard that going to Canada or Mexico is not advisable as they are not accepting candidates for first H1B stamping anymore. Is that true? 2) I would really avoid to go back to my home country in Europe as it will very time consuming. I was planning a trip for thanks -giving to Argentina and planning to go to the consulate there, however I am not sure if the third country processing (TCN) is applicable there. The website has no information about it. I also tried to call them but they also refer to the website.

Would you please assist?

It is true that travelling to your home country for first H1-B stamping is advisable. You can still give it a shot at Argentina consulate, just keep in mind that you will have to arrange a stay there if your case goes to ‘Administrative Processing’.

Hi I completed all forms and submitted my application to usa consulate in montreal for my L1A stamping. I was trying to schedule an appointment but dates are far off in late November. Mean while I have to goto India and planning to get my visa stamped in India. I have not yet paid my fee and no appointments has been scheduled. Please advice how I can cancel the first application from montreal and re submit for India.

Refer to this link to edit DS-160 after submission: http://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=ec2111fb-0cd9-4ce4-871c-b681b73c0146

Hi I am working in Canada on work permit . I have visa stamping appointment in Mumbai but going back to India is costly so company is asking me to schedule an appointment in Canada so wanted to know that is this possible? how easy it is here in Canada?

Heyyy!! Please share your experience. I am in a similar situation.

Once my visa was approved, do they mail my passport to where I stay or can I pick it up at the embassy? I plan to get the interview done and then travel around canada while waiting for my visa being issued. But unsure if they have the option to pick up your passport at the embassy once it is done. Can anyone who have gone through the process provide an answer? Thanks.

Also want to know if they allow pickups from Consulate. I know nobody in Canada so dont have a mailing address they can ship it back to.

My other Q is this – my current H1 expires in July. I already got a renewal. Can I go to Canada in May for visa stamping despite current visa expiring in July? ie: Can I come back on my old visa or will they cancel that visa? I presume I cant come back in May with my new stamp because that would start only in July.

I am on a similar boat. I have a valid visa which is expiring soon and but an approved I797. I am divided between choosing to go to India or go to Canada.. Let me know if you find answer to your question.

I am in similar situation .please help me with the info

So, the Montreal Consulate accepts both L1B-L2 visa application?

Hello, my H1B status ends on 9/4/2018 (Sept 4 2018) and my passport expires on 12/25/2018 (Dec 25 2018). Will this cause any issues when I go for my interview at the US Embassy in Ottawa?

you need to have 6 month validity left on your passport on the day of visa stamping, you have got lot of time to get new passport, better avoid the hassle to carry 2 passport in future by renewing passport right now

Hello, I am currently working in US on H1B visa. My visa stamping expired last month and now thinking to go to Ottawa, Canada for re-stamping. I will be going there with my wife (H4) and my 2 kids (H4). While filling DS-160, I found some questions which I am not clear what to answer. I would appreciate if you please clarify them:

For my DS-160 (H1b): 1. Do you have any immediate relatives, not including parents, in the United States? Since we all be going to Canada together, should I mention my wife and kids detail here or not?

For my kids DS-160: 1. U.S. Point of Contact Information. Here, it should be my name or my employer details? 2. Is your father in the U.S.? Yes or No? 3. Is your mother in the U.S.? Yes or No? 4. Do you have any immediate relatives, not including parents, in the United States? Should I include, mine, my wife and other son information here or not?

hope this helps, https://www.uscis.gov/tools/glossary/immediate-relatives

I am planning to go to Canada for my first visa stamping, in case it gets rejected, i understand i must travel to my home country. question is can an H1-B be re approved or do you just get one shot at it?

Hello Prajwal,

Did you make this trip for your h1b stamping? Please share your experience if you have. Thanks!

Hi Desi compile, I really appreciate about your post and it helped me a lot from starting in guiding to get canada visa, appointment & other stuff. I really thanks you for such a really nice post.

I am changing my status from F1 to H1B on 1st Oct and planning to go for H1B interview in Canada in 3rd week of October. 1)Is that time period okay or is it recommended that I go several months after the change of status on 1st Oct? 2)As I am currently living in US , what should I enter in the field ‘Home address’ and ‘Mailing address’ on DS-160 for visa interview in Canada? It is confusing because it is unclear whether it is asking for permanent home address in home country or US address is fine. Also for the mailing address I guess some hotel address of Canada where I will be staying needs to be provided? Please advise. Thanks!

My H1-B status shows approved awaiting the official letter by mail. I have a work related travel coming up in the first week of October when I would ideally change status from F1 to H1-B. Should I take an appointment in US consulate of the country I am visiting or my best chance would be to go to India all during one trip and get it done? Or, Should I get it done beforehand during September, 2017 before flying out or is it going to be too ambitious?

If you could answer that for me. Thank you.

First up, thanks for your extremely useful post. Second, my husband and I are planning to go to Canada for our visa stamping (he’s on H-1B and I’m on H-4). We both will have to fill out SEPARATE DS-160s right, one for each of us? Thank you!

Hi , I am planing to stay at my sisters place, Waterloo,ON. Also I’ll be updating same Waterloo address in DS-160 . My Interview is scheduled at Toronto . Please clarify below question. 1. My passport will be delivered to Waterloo Post office or Toronto Post office 2. Finger print and interview will be done at the same day (back in India , it goes for two days)

I am wondering if some one can let me know what is the current waiting period in any of the VISA centers for appointment. thanks.

Hi, I heard that if you travel by road you will have stamped on Port of entry. Can anyone share their experiences ?

Visa stamp on my passport got expired last year but I have a valid 797 for next 3 years . I have canadian 10 years multiple entry visa. If I travel by road to canada from Niagara falls and come back to US same day, Is there any provision to get stamp at port of entry ?

I heard from a friend of friend of mine that it is doable.

Expert advice pleases..

” Are you traveling from another country to apply for a u.s. visa? ”

If i answer :

yes – the earliest available appointment is on October. No – I am able to see appointments for June and July.

Friends, Anybody knows the current active dates for Toronto/Montreal/Ottawa ?

Hi, I am going to Calgary, Canada for my H1B stamping in October’18. I have got my first stamping from India in 2016. I have got my visa appointment date but i don’t see anywhere about the Biometrics. Before my first H1B stamping, I went for biometrics on day 1 and on day 2 was the interview. So, do you know if we have to go for biometrics again before the visa interview?

Hello Aseem,

Were you able to submit the Biometrics? I am in the same situation at the same consulate location and any inputs would be helpful. Thank you!

I am facing the same issue with my Visa appointment in Calgary, can you please provide details on how did you resolve it?

Hi I am trying to fill the DS160 form but it is constantly asking for my travel plans in US, I am travelling to Canada to get the stamping done. So I dont understand how to answer this question.

Your guys should get some kind of award for the hard work you’ve done to put this together. Awesome job folks.

Abhijit Sen.

I am on F1 Visa. I have got H1B approved oct/2018. I am planning to go to Canada to get 1st H1B stamped. Can you please suggest if I can go to Canada for H1B stamping and if yes would the above mentioned process holds good.

Awaiting for your response

Hello All, I have H1b I-94 extension approved till Mar 2021. I have last H1b stamped visa till Jun 2018 from Delhi India.

Can I go to canada before Jun 2019 and use dropbox facilities there? will it be smooth or any issues?

Hey Kandarp, can you please share dropbox experience of visa stamping in canada?

Hi, I have my H1B stamping in Ottawa ,I plan to travel by bus. I have Canada visitor visa.can I travel to Toronto first and from there go-to Ottawa.

Does a Canadian need H-1b interview to get the stamp?

I have an H-1 stamping appointment in Vancouver and I gave my hotel address as the delivery address. Will the consulate send the passports to the hotel? If not, please let me know how to select a pick up option or any alternate addresses (eg. Loomis) that can be provided.

you could just list your closest post office thats what i did so that it is not missed and i do not get late.

Any body have visa interview in Calgary during 7-8 nov?

Can we travel around canada by car while our passports are with US embassy for stamping? What ID proofs should we carry ?

if you have a Valid US drivers license

Hi, I am currently on F1 CPT . I got my H1b I797B consular processing approval(Without I94 not Change of Status). Also, I do not have any consulate name written on my I797B approval. Can I attend the visa interview in CANADA? I have the Canada’s visitor visa stamped. Can you suggest me if it can be possible? or if anyone were /are in the same situation? Please help

I am trying to know the level of risk in going to Canada for stamping with consular H1B approval in hand and also do US consulate in Canada do stamping for change of status (I mean can we go to Canada for the first H1B stamping rather than extensions).

I am on work permit in Canada. My company is looking to transfer me to USA, i had masters degree from US as a F1 student. My question is can i get my First L1b stampings done in Canada? I will be Third party National but atleast have canadian work permit and working for same employer in Canada who is looking to send me back to US on L1b. Feedback is appreciated.

Hello, I live and work in Canada Ontario, My US employer transfeered me to Canada in Feb 2021. I have completed 1.5 Years in Canada. Can I get my first L1B blanket stamp in Canada? I had previous US F1 and B1 visa approved from India. Now I from past 1.5 years I am staying here in Canada and working for same employer who transferred me from US to Canada , now they want me there for 3 year project.

Even though I am TCN here in Canada as I am yet to get PR Here (waiting for Invivitation already in the pool) can I get stamp here? It does not make any sense to me to travel to India when I am working for Canadian employer and living here so worst case even if I get 221g It does not affect me as I will continue working for same employer another year on work permit so I can wait in Canada.

Please provide feedback.

While filling the application on ais.usvisa-info.com to schedule an appointment there are 2 questions that are little confusing. can I get some guidance on answering those?

1. Country of Permanent Residence. The explanation for this field reads If you are not a citizen of the country where you permanently reside, select the country where you have been granted permission to legally work, study, or live. – Makes me wanna select US as I am authorized to work here but I dont have a GC so its confusing. 2. Were you previously issued a visa to enter the United States I do have prior H1-B’s but none from consulates in Canada. I am intending to select Yes for this and then choose Issuing Post not listed. Is that correct as I never had stamping done in Canada?

Hi, I got on H1B visa status recently and want to travel to Canada for stamping as wait times in my home country India are very high. I was given a 221g during my F1 visa interview but the visa was approved within a few days. I am unable to decide what to do, travel home or Canada, since I had 221g earlier will it affect my application during Dropbox or in-person interview? Also, I was following a story that the US government is working on enabling H1B stamping in the US itself. Does anyone know if that’s plausible or share current developments? Lastly, can a person on H1B travel to Canada and return without stamping? I heard someone in my friend circle did it but I highly doubt if that’s true.

I had to reschedule my appointment from Toronto to Vancouver. Now my ds160 is still states Toronto. Is it fine if I go to Vancouver. I booked this an year back

Hello, Is the US embassy in Canada still processing H1-B visas for non resident aliens? I am an Indian citizen, living in California for the last 7 years (first 4 on F1, then next 3 on OPT, then Cap-Gap, and now on my approval notice). Not sure what current conditions are due to COVID backlogs. Written on Dec 20th 2022. Thanks so much!

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Traveling to Canada on an H1B Visa: What You Need to Know

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

Traveling to Canada on an H1B visa can be a complicated process and requires careful preparation. This article explores the various ways one can travel to Canada on an H1B visa and what to consider when planning the trip. It also looks at how to navigate Canadian immigration laws and prepare for the journey.

Exploring Travel Options for H1B Visa Holders to Canada

There are several ways to travel to Canada with an H1B visa. Depending on your circumstances and budget, you may choose to travel by air, land, or cruise ship. Each option has its own set of requirements and considerations, so it is important to research thoroughly to determine the best choice for your needs.

Air travel is the most popular and convenient way to get to Canada from the United States. There are numerous direct flights from major U.S. cities to Canadian destinations such as Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. Depending on the airline, the flight time can range from two to eight hours. When traveling by air, it is important to check the entry requirements for both countries to ensure that you have all the necessary documents.

Land Travel

If you prefer to take a more leisurely approach to getting to Canada, you may want to consider land travel. This option includes driving, taking the bus, or taking a train. All three methods require valid identification and proof of citizenship, but there may be additional restrictions depending on the mode of transportation. For example, many bus companies require advance reservations and some trains may require tickets to be purchased in advance.

Cruise Ship Travel

Another option for travelers with an H1B visa is to take a cruise ship to Canada. Most cruises departing from the United States will stop in several Canadian ports along the way. Before booking a cruise, it is important to check the entry requirements for both countries to make sure you have all the necessary documents. Additionally, you should be aware that cruises tend to be more expensive than other modes of travel.

How to Plan a Trip to Canada on an H1B Visa

Once you have decided which method of travel is right for you, it is time to start planning your trip to Canada. The following are some tips to help ensure your journey goes smoothly.

Researching Requirements

The first step in planning a trip to Canada is researching the entry requirements for both countries. It is important to make sure you have all the necessary documents and permits before starting your journey. Additionally, you should familiarize yourself with any customs regulations or restrictions that may be in place.

Making Reservations

If you are traveling by air, bus, or train, it is important to make reservations in advance. This will ensure that you get the best rates and avoid any unexpected delays. Additionally, if you are taking a cruise, it is important to make sure you book a cabin that meets all the requirements of your visa.

Obtaining Necessary Documentation

In order to enter Canada, you must have a valid passport and a valid visa. If you are traveling by air, you may also need a valid Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Additionally, you may need to obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) if you plan to stay in Canada longer than six months. It is important to make sure you have all the necessary documents before starting your journey.

What to Know Before Travelling to Canada on an H1B Visa

Before traveling to Canada on an H1B visa, it is important to understand the immigration laws of both countries. Additionally, you should know your rights as a visitor and comply with all applicable regulations.

Understanding Immigration Laws

It is important to familiarize yourself with the immigration laws of both countries before traveling to Canada. The United States has specific regulations regarding who is eligible for an H1B visa and how long they can stay in the country. Additionally, Canada has its own set of laws regarding the admission of foreign nationals into the country. It is important to make sure you understand these laws before beginning your journey.

Knowing Your Rights as a Visitor

As a visitor to Canada, you have certain rights and responsibilities. These include the right to work, the right to access healthcare, and the responsibility to obey the law. It is important to familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities before traveling to ensure that you comply with all applicable regulations.

Complying with Canadian Regulations

When traveling to Canada with an H1B visa, it is important to comply with all local regulations. This includes respecting the laws of the country, adhering to the terms of your visa, and not engaging in any illegal activities. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in deportation or other penalties.

Preparing for a Trip to Canada with an H1B Visa

Once you have researched the entry requirements and familiarized yourself with the immigration laws and regulations, it is time to start preparing for your trip. The following are some tips to help you get ready for your journey.

Obtaining Necessary Visas

If you plan to stay in Canada longer than six months, you will need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). This visa must be obtained before entering the country and is typically valid for up to five years. Additionally, you may need to obtain a work permit if you plan to work while in Canada.

Acquiring Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an important consideration when traveling abroad. It is recommended that you purchase a policy that covers medical expenses, lost luggage, and other potential risks. Additionally, you should make sure your policy covers any activities you plan to participate in while in Canada.

Planning for Costs

It is important to plan for the costs associated with your trip. This includes the cost of transportation, accommodations, meals, and any activities you plan to participate in. Additionally, you should budget for any visas or insurance policies you may need to purchase. Taking the time to plan for these costs ahead of time can help ensure that you have a successful and enjoyable trip.

How to Navigate Canadian Immigration Laws for H1B Visa Holders

Navigating Canadian immigration laws can be challenging for those with an H1B visa. In order to ensure a smooth and successful journey, it is important to understand the document requirements, application process, and processing times for entering the country.

Document Requirements

In order to enter Canada, you must have a valid passport and a valid visa. Additionally, you may need to obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) if you plan to stay in Canada longer than six months. It is important to make sure you have all the necessary documents before starting your journey.

Application Process

Once you have all the necessary documents, you will need to complete an application for entry into Canada. This application must be submitted to the Canadian embassy or consulate in your home country. Additionally, you may need to attend an interview with a Canadian immigration officer.

Processing Times

The processing time for visa applications varies depending on the country of origin and the type of visa being applied for. Generally, processing times range from one to three weeks. It is important to allow enough time for your application to be processed before starting your journey.

Travelling to Canada on an H1B visa can be a complex process, but with proper preparation and research, it can be a successful and enjoyable experience. When planning your trip, it is important to research the entry requirements for both countries, make reservations in advance, obtain the necessary documents, and familiarize yourself with the immigration laws and regulations. Additionally, you should obtain the necessary visas and travel insurance and plan for the costs associated with your trip. By taking the time to prepare, you can ensure a safe and successful journey.

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Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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Analyzing Canada's New Visa Initiative for U.S. H1B Visa Holders

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Canada recently launched a new immigration initiative aimed at attracting U.S. H1B visa holders. As part of the country's first-ever Tech Talent Strategy, the Canadian government announced the creation of an open work permit stream to enable work for any Canadian employer, for H1B visa holders residing in the U.S. This move has stirred considerable interest and speculation across the globe. In this article, we delve into the specifics of this new Canadian visa scheme, its potential implications, and the challenges it may face.

The New Canadian Visa Scheme for H1B Holders: An Overview

The new Canadian visa initiative is primarily designed to lure tech professionals currently working in the U.S. under the H1B visa program. The H1B visa enables U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations.

As part of Canada's Tech Talent Strategy, the Canadian Immigration Minister revealed plans to allow 10,000 H1B visa holders from the U.S. to work in Canada. The initiative also extends to their family members, providing them with study or work permits.

The program is slated to commence on July 16, 2023. Approved applicants will receive an open work permit valid for up to three years. This permit will enable them to work for any employer across Canada, thus providing them with increased flexibility and opportunities.

Potential Challenges for the Canadian Visa Initiative

While this new Canadian immigration scheme shows potential in attracting top tech talent, as mentioned by Boundless, it may face certain obstacles in drawing skilled workers from the U.S. These include:

• Lower Salary Rates in Canada: Salaries in Canada tend to be lower than the US. However, comparing purchasing power can be complicated. For example, the US has the highest healthcare costs in the World. Canada has free health care.
• Many of the World's top IT companies are from the US: Well-known US tech companies including Microsoft, Apple, and Alphabet (Google) were founded in the US, and have their headquarters based there. Major tech hubs include Silicon Valley, Seattle, and Austin. The resources, networks, and infrastructure available in these hubs may still be more attractive to tech talent and entrepreneurs.
• Strong preference for USA instead of Canada: The US is the largest economy in the world, and the most important country in the World for innovation in IT and technology. IT people from India and elsewhere will most likely consider the US as having the most opportunities for career development. Many IT people may move to Canada in the hope that it may make it easier at a future date to gain entry to the US. Canadian citizens can obtain US visas more easily, such as the TN visa for NAFTA professionals, and benefit from easier processing of L1 visas . IT professionals may think of moving to Canada as a temporary move.
• Only 10,000 Canadian visas available: The new program will remain in effect for one year or until 10,000 applications are received. The number of visas available is therefore quite small.

What should the US do now?

The US can try and reform the immigration system. However, in practice significant reform seems unlikely. It is very difficult putting through immigration legislation that will make it easier for migrants to work in the US.

It is unlikely that the U.S. will be left with a dearth of tech workers due to the new Canadian work visa system. Ten thousand work visas is in reality an insignificant number, and will not make much of a difference.

Who Qualifies for the New Canadian Visa Program?

While the new Canadian visa program has garnered significant media attention, there are still a few open questions regarding eligibility.

According to the announcement , the program is open to H1B specialty occupation visa holders in the U.S. However, not all H1B nonimmigrants in the U.S. will hold a valid H1B visa stamp. There are multiple circumstances under which one can be in H1B status, but not possess an H1B visa.

It remains to be seen whether the Canadian immigration authorities will exclude such H1B nonimmigrants from the new work permit program, despite their lack of an H1B visa. Based on the language of the announcement, it appears that they might be excluded. However, Government announcements can sometimes be misleading. Further details should be available when the visa program is launched.

Allocation of the New Work Permits

Another point of uncertainty is how the Canadian immigration authorities will allocate the limited supply of the new work permits. The announcement suggests that they may allocate the 10,000 available numbers for principal applicants on a first-come, first-served basis. However, such a system can result in chaos if more than the allotted number attempt to apply on the first possible day that the visas become available. If this happens, presumably there will be a lottery for the available visas.

Uncertainty Around Eligibility Requirements

A third open question is whether there will be any requirement linked to the length of remaining time in H1B status available to an applicant. The IRCC webpage guidance to high-skilled workers suggests that applicants should choose the program if their U.S. work visa is expiring soon. However, it is unclear whether this is a requirement or merely a recommendation.

The official legal basis for the new work permits, likely to be in the form of a temporary public policy or a Ministerial Instruction, has not yet been publicized by the Canadian immigration authorities. Once this is published, we should have much more detail of the visa system in practice.

Impact of New Canadian Work Visa System

The new Canadian visa system is a good idea, which aims to tap into the pool of highly skilled tech talent in the U.S. However, the impact of this initiative will likely be limited due to the small number of visas available and the fact that the U.S. is a much larger economy with more opportunities than Canada.

While Canada's new strategy may attract some talent. it should not make much of a difference to the US. The US is the most popular immigration destination in the World.

Canada's new visa initiative for U.S. H1B visa holders will most likely be successful in attracting ten thousand visa applicants. However, one significant issue may be that many of these people would much rather be in the US.

As countries compete to attract the world's best and brightest, it will be interesting to see how immigration policies evolve in the coming years.

workpermit.com helps with US Work Visa: L1, H1B, E2, and O1 Visas

There are various types of US visas that individuals can apply for, depending on their circumstances. Some of the most common employment-based visas include:

L1 visa : This visa is for intracompany transferees who work in managerial or executive positions or have specialized knowledge.

H1B visa : This visa is for specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise in specialized fields.

E2 visa : This visa is for investors who have made a significant investment in a US business and, management or essential skills employees.  Only certain nationalities can apply.

O1 visa : This visa is for individuals with extraordinary abilities in the arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics.

Workpermit.com is a specialist visa services firm with over thirty years of experience dealing with visa applications. For more information and advice, please contact us on  0344 991 9222  or at  [email protected](link sends e-mail)

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Travel on H-1B Visa

Travel during the visa request process.

Always discuss your travel plans with the International Scholars Operations (ISO) team before traveling internationally and before any petition is filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf.

Changes of Status

If you are in the U.S. and attempting to change your status to H-1B, or if your dependents are applying for a change of status to H-4, do not travel outside the U.S. while the petition is pending with USCIS. USCIS may say that you have abandoned the petition and deny your change of status. In this situation, you would have to exit the U.S., apply for a new H-1B visa stamp, and reenter as outlined in Coming to the U.S. page .

Extensions of Status and Changes of Employer

You can travel internationally and reenter the U.S. while your H-1B status is being extended or transferred from one employer to another, provided you have a valid I-797 Approval Notice and a valid H-1B visa (unless visa-exempt or eligible for automatic visa revalidation). If your current H-1B expires before you return, you may have to wait until the H-1B extension is approved to reenter.

Returning to the U.S. after a Temporary Absence

When returning to the U.S. after a temporary absence, be prepared to show the following to the Customs and Border Protection officer:

• Original and unexpired Form I-797 Approval Notice.
• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the end date of your expected stay.
• Letter from your UW host department confirming you are returning to continue full-time employment in the job described in the I-129 petition.
• These were forwarded to you by your host department. If you cannot locate them, contact ISO .
• Note: If the visa has expired, it may be extended by presenting the documents listed above to a U.S. consulate . Anticipate delays due to security reviews. For information about the visa process and to schedule an interview appointment, contact the U.S. consulate in the city where the application will be submitted.

Short Travel to Canada or Mexico under Automatic Visa Revalidation

A valid H-1B visa stamp (or H-4 visa stamp) is not required for reentry to the U.S. following a visit of less than 30 days in Canada or Mexico, as long as you have a valid H-1B approval notice. This is called automatic visa revalidation. However, if you apply for a new visa while in Canada or Mexico, you will not be able to return to the U.S. unless the visa is granted.

Automatic visa revalidation is not available to nationals of countries on the State Sponsors of Terrorism list .

Be boundless

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Trip to Canada without H1B stamping

• Thread starter chandler
• Start date Jun 30, 2012

Full Member

Hi all, 1)I am on the second term of my H1B valid till 2014. I have an I-94 that expired with the first term of H1B last year. Can I travel to Canada to fulfill my landing requirement and come back to the US without H1B stamped? 2) if answer to the first question is yes - Since my I-94 is expired, will US immigration extend my I-94 even without H1B stamping when I enter back to the US from Cansda? Thank you!  

Champion Member

http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/info/info_1299.html  

Thanks CanV. But how can someone have a renewed H1B but a valid I-94? I got my H1B stamped in India for my first term that was valid until last year. So at the US port of entry I was issued I-94 with a validity matching with my H1B validity. Am I missing something?  

You mentioned you renewed your H1B, so you should have received a new I-94 as part of the approval of your second H1B (at the bottom of form I-797A). Use both I-94's when you leave and return. Remember not to surrender them when you leave the US.  

CanV - I cannot express in words how much I am thankful to you at this point. Indeed I have an unexpired I-94 on my H1B. Here I come Canada!  

CanadaDreams

Chandler, Did you face any problems while entering back in the US using your valid I-94 but expired visa? Thanks, HB  

Hi, I am in the similar situation. I am on my 7th year H-1B, which is valid until 2014. My H1-B stamp expired last year and I just recieved my 7th year extension. did you face any issues while travelling to canada and entering back to US without getting H1-B stamped? pls share. also, how long do we have to stay in Canada to meet the landing requirements for canadian PR?  

Hi, I am in same situation as above. Thanks,  

CanadaDreams said: Chandler, Did you face any problems while entering back in the US using your valid I-94 but expired visa? Thanks, HB Click to expand...

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Can I Travel While My H-1B is Pending?

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This article was published by Annie Blay on Legalpad.

Perhaps you’re considering leaving the U.S. while you wait for your H-1B petition to be approved. Or maybe you want to apply for an H-1B but first need to know if it’ll impact your ability to travel. 

The short answer is this: In most situations, you can travel internationally while your H-1B petition is pending. 

The challenge? You need a valid H-1B stamp to re-enter the country. If you don’t already have a stamp, you’ll have to go to a U.S. consulate abroad first before returning to the U.S. 

Getting an appointment at a U.S. consulate can sometimes be tricky, so a quick trip to Europe for a conference could easily turn into being stuck outside the U.S. indefinitely. 

Below we outline the most common situations immigrants with pending H-1Bs find themselves in and how they impact travel.

What is an H-1B visa?

An H-1B provides foreign nationals with employment authorization at a U.S. company. To qualify for H-1B employment, applicants are typically required to have a Bachelor’s degree and a job offer in a field related to their degree.

To apply for an H-1B visa, the sponsoring company needs to send the following documentation to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):

• Form I-129: an immigration form required for H-1B petitions
• Form I-907: an immigration form for requesting premium processing (optional) 
• An approved Labor Condition Application (LCA) from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• Filing fees
• Supporting documentation

H-1B applicants who are married or who have children under 21 can include their qualifying family members as dependents in their H-1B petition. Upon approval of the H-1B, their dependents will receive H-4 status.

Traveling When You Have an H-1B Petition Pending with USCIS

Whether you are permitted to travel while you wait for USCIS to review your H-1B petition depends on the type of H-1B petition you filed. 

New H-1B Petition

If you leave the U.S. after filing an H-1B Change of Status (COS) petition, your COS will be considered abandoned and your petition will automatically be adjudicated as a Consular petition. This does not mean that your petition will be denied, but it does mean that you won’t be able to re-enter the U.S. on your new H-1B status without going to a U.S. consulate first.

• What is the difference between H-1B Change of Status and Consular processing?

When your sponsoring employer files a new H-1B petition, they can select COS or Consular processing. 

COS processing is only available when the beneficiary (you) is physically present in the U.S. on a valid status. When a COS petition is approved, your status is automatically changed to the new status—in this case, H-1B. 

Consular petitions are different because they require you to attend a visa interview at a U.S. consulate abroad before beginning work on your new status in the U.S.

If you file a COS petition and then leave the country, your status cannot automatically be changed upon approval of your visa since you do not have a status when outside the U.S.

• So, is it okay to travel with a pending COS petition?

Yes, you can leave the U.S. while your COS is pending as long as you know that your petition will effectively become a Consular petition. 

The result? You will only be able to enter the U.S. on your new status (H-1B) if you attend a visa interview at a consulate abroad first. 

Depending on where you’re trying to book your interview, the wait times can be anywhere between a few days and over a year. Be sure to research and contact local consulates ahead of time; otherwise, you may get stuck outside the U.S.

Read the full article on Legalpad.

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US Visa: New rules for H-1B registration and filing process in 2024

The cost of h-1b registration and petition filing fees for form i-129 will climb significantly beginning in april..

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has taken several steps to improve the H-1B registration process and lessen the possibility of fraud. Some of the measures were implemented earlier while many other key rules related to immigration and H-1B went live from April 1, 2024. The new visa fee schedule will influence the cost of numerous non-immigrant visa categories, including the most popular among Indians: H-1B, L-1, and EB-5 visas.

Cost of H-1B registration

The cost of H-1B registration and petition filing fees for Form I-129 will climb significantly beginning April. Petitioners use Form I-129 to file on behalf of a nonimmigrant worker to come to the United States temporarily to perform services, or to receive training, as an H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, H-3, L-1, O-1, O-2, P-1, P-1S, P-2, P-2S, P-3, P-3S, Q-1 or R-1 nonimmigrant worker.

The $10 H-1B registration process fee will be raised to $215, a 2,050% increase and the petition filing fee for Form I-129 is now $780. The Form I-129 H-1B petition filing fee is in addition to the H-1B registration charge. There will be no grace period for submitting the new version of Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, as it must be updated with the new fee computation. The increased fees will go into effect on April 1, 2024.

Beneficiary-Centric Registrations

Starting with the fiscal year 2025 for the initial registration period, USCIS will require registrants to furnish valid passport or travel document information for each beneficiary. The passport or travel document presented must be the one the beneficiary plans to use to enter the United States if granted an H-1B visa. Each beneficiary must be enrolled under a single passport or travel document. The beneficiary-centric method selects registrations based on unique beneficiaries.

Filing Form I-129 petitions from April 1

From April 1, 2024, USCIS service centers are no longer accepting Form I-129 petitions requesting H-1B or H-1B1 (HSC) classification. USCIS will reject H-1B or H-1B1 (HSC) petitions received at a USCIS service center on or after April 1, 2024.

Beginning on April 1, 2024, all paper-filed Form I-129 petitions requesting H-1B1 (HSC), or H-1B classification, including those with a concurrent Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, and those with concurrently filed Form I-539 and/or Form I-765, must be filed at a USCIS lockbox facility.

USCIS will accept prior editions of most forms during a grace period from April 1, 2024, through June 3, 2024. During this grace period, USCIS will accept both previous and new editions of certain forms, filed with the correct fee.

There will be no grace period for the following new forms, however, because they must be revised with a new fee calculation.

Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker; Form I-129 CW, Petition for a CNMI-Only Nonimmigrant Transitional Worker; Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers; Form I-600A, Application for Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition (and supplement 1, 2 and 3); and Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative.

Filing H-2B petitions

H-2B petitions postmarked on or after April 1, 2024, must include the new fees and be filed on the 04/01/24 edition of the form or USCIS will not accept them. The H-2B program allows U.S. companies or agents to hire foreign nationals for temporary non-agricultural occupations if they meet particular regulatory conditions. Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, must be filed by a U.S. employer or agent on behalf of the prospective worker.

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U.S. Chamber Letter on H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa Renewals

240415 comments h 1 b pilot state final.

Jon Baselice Vice President, Immigration Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

April 16, 2024

April 15, 2024

Jami Thompson Senior Regulatory Coordinator Visa Services Bureau of Consular Affairs U.S. Department of State 

Re:   Notice, Pilot Program to Resume Renewal of H-1B Nonimmigrant Visas in the United States for Certain Qualified Noncitizens (88 Fed. Reg. 88,467-88,470, RIN 1400-AF79, December 21, 2023)

Dear Senior Regulatory Coordinator Thompson: 

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce appreciates the opportunity to comment on the above-referenced notice. We were pleased when the State Department announced its intentions to launch this much-anticipated pilot program last February and our members welcomed the publication of the notice that created the program last December. Feedback from member companies has been very positive. When a company’s workers can obtain an H-1B extension without leaving the U.S., it provides both the employer and the employee with additional certainty that business disruptions can be avoided, deliverables can be completed in timely fashion, and companies are in a much better position to meet their business needs.

The Chamber is thankful for the State Department’s engagement with us as it designed the program’s contours and implemented it over the past several months. However, our members have conveyed to us that there are several ways in which this program could be built upon and improved. While we heard from many companies that had employees who have taken advantage of this pilot program, there were many other companies whose employees could not meet the eligibility criteria set forth under the pilot. In addition, several member companies that utilized the pilot informed us that some of the annotations made on their workers’ visas were sources of confusion for their businesses. We urge the State Department to rectify those issues by providing more guidance to the regulated community regarding how these annotations should be interpreted by the companies. Last, but certainly not least, the primacy that companies place upon workforce certainty cannot be understated and we believe it would benefit the State Department, our member companies, and their workers if this pilot program were made into a permanent program and the eligibility requirements were extended to cover several other visa classifications.

The Benefits of Expanding the Pilot Program and Making it Permanent

The Chamber appreciates the methodical approach the State Department took in reinstating domestic visa renewal capabilities for non-diplomatic, nonimmigrant visa holders. The launch of this pilot program represents the first time in roughly two decades that the State Department is performing this type of function for any type of nonimmigrant worker classification. Our members whose employees took advantage of this program understand that the Department’s decision to “start small” with strict eligibility criteria and only 20,000 application slots was driven by a desire to ensure that the program’s rollout was not afflicted by any significant processing hurdles. By that measurement, the rollout of the pilot program during this year has been a success, as the member feedback we’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive.

Nevertheless, there are many ways in which the State Department can build upon its successes and make this program much more beneficial not only to the American business community and the U.S. economy, but also to our nation’s security. The Department should make the pilot program permanent and extend eligibility for domestic visa renewals to applicants in many other classifications before the end of this calendar year. Making this program permanent will ensure that this tool can help the Department make the best use of its limited consular resources over an extended period of time. This is particularly important, considering the processing backlogs that it is currently confronting and the serious national security mission of the Department. Having the ability to redirect processing away from busy consulates will help improve their processing times and provide more consistency in adjudications. More importantly, it will free up consular resources that can be directed towards interviewing and investigating visa applicants that potentially pose a greater threat to the safety of the U.S. than foreign nationals that are already in the country and have oftentimes already undergone background checks on multiple occasions.

In addition to making the program permanent, the Department should expand the eligibility criteria of the current pilot program to include applicants for visas in several other visa classifications beyond the Department’s current limitations. As stated before, we understand the Department’s reasons for limiting eligibility to a subset of H-1B applicants whose visas were issued by Mission Canada or Mission India. However, allowing visa applicants from other countries and in different visa categories who do not pose a security risk to renew their visas in the United States will provide more companies with much-needed additional certainty as it pertains to their business operations. The State Department should expand this pilot program to cover as many visa classifications and as many individual applications as is practical.

Given that the pilot has been operating for only a few months, we can appreciate if the State Department desires to continue its methodical approach regarding any potential program expansion. If that is the case, we recommend that the Department consider the following categories in any future effort to expand the program’s eligibility constraints to the following cohorts of foreign nationals:

• The dependents of all eligible principal H-1B nonimmigrants;
• H-1B nonimmigrants that obtained their prior visa from other countries beside Canada and India, and expanding the issuance date eligibility criteria to cover more individuals, and;
• Nonimmigrants possessing different visas in different classifications, such as F, E, J, L, and O, as well as any dependents and individuals accompanying the principal nonimmigrant to the U.S.

Feedback and Suggestions for Improving Domestic Visa Renewal Operations

As stated above, the Chamber received significant positive feedback from our members on the experience that their companies and their employees had in using the new pilot program. In fact, many of the companies conveyed to us that their employees that utilized the pilot obtained their new visas in a timely fashion. However, there were several suggestions that companies have for the State Department to improve the program’s operations moving forward.

One common refrain we heard from several companies was on the restrictive eligibility criteria preventing their employees from being able to renew their visa domestically. Multiple companies told us that the strict criteria prevented many of their workers from taking advantage of their program. Other businesses cited the inability of the principal nonimmigrant’s dependents to renew their visas domestically as a key factor in their worker’s decision to forego seeking to renew their visa domestically. These issues would be solved by the State Department expanding the program in the manner suggested above.

Another issue that has caused a significant amount of consternation for our members and their workers is the inclusion of an annotation of “not valid until ten days before the petition validity date” being included on the new visa stamp in the foreign national’s passport. Several companies have informed us that their workers spent a significant time worrying over what this meant for their status in the U.S. and whether it would inhibit their ability to return to the U.S. if they needed to travel internationally. The Chamber acknowledges that this language is included in the relevant section of the Department’s Foreign Affairs Manual (“FAM”), but it would behoove the Department to either revisit this section of the FAM or create a Frequently Asked Questions document that can help provide additional guidance to applicants. This additional information will provide individuals with a better understanding of what this annotation means for them and their ability to remain in the U.S., which in turn will help encourage more people to take advantage of the program.

Conclusion ​

We very much appreciate the State Department’s engagement with the Chamber throughout the process of reinstating this domestic visa renewal program. We hope the Department finds our feedback helpful as it seeks to expand the opportunities for hard-working foreign nationals to renew their nonimmigrant visas without having to the leave the U.S. More importantly, we look forward to working with the State Department to expand this pilot program in a manner that enhances business certainty and improves our national security.

Thank you for considering our views.

Jonathan Baselice Vice President, Immigration Policy U.S. Chamber of Commerce

About the authors

Jon baselice.

Jon currently serves as the Vice President of Immigration Policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. He joined the Chamber in June 2014. He works with Chamber member companies to form Chamber policy positions on various issues and he advocates for sensible immigration policies before Congress and the executive branch agencies.

• Employment Policy
• Immigration

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