H-1B Visa Holder's Tense Return: CBP Sets New Stay Date
An Indian H-1B visa holder recently shared their experience returning to the US three days before their visa was set to expire. The person's visa validity was until July 31, but an extension had been filed in March under regular processing.
The individual traveled back to the US on July 28 through Seattle Port of Entry and presented their documents, including a new I-797 approval notice, which was still pending. The CBP officer verified the filing and asked about future travel plans for visa stamping if the extension was approved.
The person was then taken for a secondary inspection, where their passport, phone, and other documents were taken. After some time, they were returned to the individual with new instructions: admission only until August 10, 2026, without explanation.