Before traveling abroad, FSIS recommends that international employees and J-1 exchange visitors carefully review the following resources and guidelines.
U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories
Before planning a trip abroad, please check the U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories for your destination country. These advisories provide up-to-date information on safety and security risks, ranging from Level 1 “Exercise normal caution” to Level 4 “Do not travel.”
U.S. Dept of State Visa Appointment Wait Times
If you must apply for a visa to enter the U.S., be sure to check the visa appointment wait times at the U.S. embassy/consulate that you plan to visit. Please be aware that processing times may be longer than usual. Plan accordingly.
Electronic Device Searches at the U.S. Ports of Entry
Prior to your departure, FSIS highly recommends that you review the AILA (America Immigration Lawyer Association) Flyer regarding electronic device searches at ports of entry and familiarize yourself with the potential for electronic device searches.
Notifying your UH Department, HR Specialist and FSIS about all travel
Before you travel, please notify your UH department, HR specialist, and FSIS of your travel plans. When traveling off island (i.e., neighbor island, U.S. mainland, or international travel), it is strongly advised that you carry your original hard copy immigration documents at all times. This includes:
- Form DS-2019 (for J-1 exchange visitors and J-2 dependents, must be travel validated for international travel) or Form I-797 approval notice (for employees)
- Passport
- I-94
J-1 Exchange Visitors: If your J-2 dependent is 18 years or over, they must also carry their own documents as well. J-1 exchange visitors need to obtain a letter of good standing from your faculty sponsor for all travel, even for domestic trips within the U.S.
International employees: Please have your HR specialist provide an employment confirmation letter that is no older than three months from your date of travel.