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Automatic Visa Revalidation offers a convenient process and streamlined avenue for certain nonimmigrant visa holders to reenter the U.S. It is a provision of immigration law allowing eligible and expired nonimmigrant visa holders to re-enter the United States after a trip of 30 days or less to Canada, Mexico, or adjacent islands.

These individuals must meet certain requirements to be admitted at a U.S. port-of-entry by CBP:

  • They are nonimmigrant visa holders with valid I-94 forms.
  • They have maintained and intend to resume nonimmigrant status.
  • They have traveled only to Canada, Mexico, or adjacent islands for 30 days or less.
  • They have not applied for a new visa during their trip.

Most nonimmigrant categories are eligible, including F, J, H, L, O, and P visas. However, there are some exceptions, such as C, D, K, S, and M visas. Upon re-entry, you should bring your passport, your I-94 form (electronic printout), your expired visa, and proof of your current status (e.g., I-129 for nonimmigrant workers, I-20 for students, DS-2019 for exchange visitors).

Please note that Automatic Visa Revalidation is not an option for individuals from a visa waiver country as it requires a visa to enter the U.S. You will also be denied re-entry to the U.S. under Automatic Visa Revalidation if you’re denied entry to Canada or Mexico. In this case, you would need to return to your home country and apply for a new visa. In addition, nonimmigrants who are otherwise eligible to re-enter the U.S. under Automatic Visa Revalidation are not able to benefit from the process if the nonimmigrant applied for a new visa and is pending a decision or has been denied a new visa application.

As long as you continue to meet all the criteria, you can use this provision multiple times. Please contact our office if you have any questions!