How To Obtain An H-1B Visa Stamp In Your Passport

Travel Permissions and Required Documentation

H-1B temporary workers are permitted to enter the U.S. 10 days prior to the H-1B start date, but may not work until the H-1B start date. If you need to renew or apply for a new H-1B visa stamp, you should review the U.S. Department of State’s embassy.gov page to schedule an appointment at the U.S. Consulate or Embassy closest to your home, review required documentation for the H-1B visa application and complete an application for a nonimmigrant H-1B visa.

In order to complete the application, you should have the following with you:

• Valid passport 
• Complete copy of the H-1B petition (which was filed with USCIS to obtain the approved H-1B) 
• The original H-1B approval notice (USCIS Form I-797) 
• DS-160 
• Copies of last two months' pay statements from the University of Rochester or other proof of payment as applicable 

Canadian citizens are not required to have a visa to enter the U.S.; instead, present the H-1B Approval Notice and a copy of H-1B petition at the border to obtain an I-94. Verify that the I-94 shows your status as H-1B.

H-4 Dependents

H-1B temporary workers may submit documentation at their visa consulate appointment for their spouse and children to accompany them to the U.S. on H-4 status.