Visitors Living in the U.S.

The Arrival/Departure Record (I-94) stamped in your passport when you arrived shows how long you can stay in the U.S. If the notation is:

• A specific date - you can stay in the United States until that date.
• "Duration of Status" (or "D/S") - you can stay as long as you meet the conditions of your visa.

Do not confuse the notation with the expiration date of your visa.

Extend Your Stay

If you need to stay in the U.S. longer, request an extension well before your visa expires. An "overstay" can result in a denial of a future visa.

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If you are a foreign visitor such as an international student, researcher, or refugee, you might be able to work temporarily in the United States with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) work permit, which can be issued to certain nonimmigrant visa holders. You will need the actual physical EAD card before you can start working. The card is your proof to an employer that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Learn more about the Employment Authorization (Form 1-765), review the instructions and filing fee, and apply to get your EAD card.

In most cases, an EAD work permit is good for one year. If you are approved, your EAD card will be mailed to you or you may be required to visit a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office to pick it up.

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If you have a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), or are a foreign citizen living in the U.S., you may need additional documents to return to the U.S. after traveling abroad. Obtain these necessary documents from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before your trip:

Permanent and Conditional Residents

• Absent for one year or longer:
  • Apply for a re-entry permit using Form I-131 - Application for Travel Document.
  • The permit is valid for two years from the date of issue for Permanent Residents; up to two years for Conditional Residents.
• Absent for less than one year:
  • No additional document is required.
  • Show your Green Card upon your return.

All Other Foreign Citizens Living in the U.S.

• Contact USCIS and your country's embassy or consulate for all document requirements.

Note: If you need a travel document, but left the United States without obtaining one, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for assistance:

• United States: Call 1-800-375-5283; for TTY dial 1-800-767-1833
• Abroad: Contact the nearest USCIS international office or a U.S. Embassy or consulate.

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