US Visa and H4 Changes: Can You Travel to Cancun with an I-94 Approval Notice?

As a couple with an H4 approval notice and an I-94 stamped visa, you might be considering a 5-day vacation to Cancun, Mexico. However, the complexities of international travel with various US visas can make your travel plans a bit complicated. Let's delve into the details to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Understanding Your Current Visa Status

In the United States, you and your spouse are currently under the umbrella of various US visas. These visas may or may not provide you with entry into Mexico. The key lies in understanding both your and your wife's visa statuses and the potential for automatic revalidation.

Your Entry into Mexico

To enter Mexico, one of you needs to ensure that your passport and H4 visa meet the requirements for visa-free entry or have an automatically extended visa as per the US Department of State regulations. Here’s what you need to know:

Check if your passport and visa allow for visa-free entry to Mexico. Alternatively, if one of you has an automatically extended visa, it can still be used for entry.

Can You Travel to Cancun?

The success of your Mexico trip largely depends on your current visa status. However, if your wife has an H4 approval notice and you have an I-94 stamped visa, here are the key points to consider:

Automatic Revalidation

In certain cases, H4 visa holders can enter the United States without a visa, provided their previous I-94 admission record has not expired. This means that if your wife's I-94 is still valid, she can enter the US automatically.

Travel to Mexico

With the I-94 stamp, your wife does not need a new H4 visa to enter the USA. If you have an unrestricted I-94, she can enter the US for a stay of up to 30 days in Mexico under automatic revalidation rule.

Steps to Take Before Your Trip

Before embarking on your Cancun vacation, make sure to verify the following:

Check the validity of your I-94 and ensure it has not expired. Verify that your passport and visa allow for automatic revalidation. Research if your passport is among those that Mexico grants visa-free entry to.

These steps will help ensure a smooth journey and a worry-free vacation in Cancun, Mexico.

Additional Considerations

As a couple with an H4 visa and an I-94 approval notice, you might also be curious about the conversion of your visa if you plan to stay longer than 30 days in Mexico. Under certain circumstances, your visa can be converted, as mentioned in 22 CFR 41.112d.

You both must confirm that:

Your original nonimmigrant classification has been changed by DHS to another nonimmigrant classification. The I-94 of your previous stay has not expired. You maintain and intend to resume your nonimmigrant status. You are in possession of a valid passport. You do not require authorization for admission under theINA 212d3. You are within the authorized period of initial admission or extension of stay.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a hassle-free trip to Cancun, Mexico.

Conclusion

With the right documents and verification, you and your wife can enjoy your 5-day vacation in Cancun, Mexico. Do your due diligence, stay informed, and plan accordingly to avoid any potential travel hitches. Happy travels!