If the NOA2 has arrived, can I still travel to the US?

[EmilyM 0]

Hey,

My fiance just got the NOA2 in the mail today, and I was wondering, is it okay for me to travel to the states in a week?

We made travel plans a month ago, because we missed each other and we weren't sure when this whole thing would go through. So would it be okay to travel? what should I bring at the border crossing to prove I'm coming back (I'm flying from Seattle)?

I have my car insurance papers which runs out at the end of april (I come home on april 5th) and also a dentist appt card that says I have an appt on april 15th... thats really all I got, would that be enough?

Thanks for the help!

I love the support this site provides, its been a tremendous help in the immigration process. Thanks again!

[JillA 2]

Hi Emily, I worried about the same thing. My fiancee called customs and you can travel up until you receive your Visa, so you can travel once you got the NOA2. Customs told him I do need proof I am coming back, so I got a letter from my boss stating that I still am employed there and the date I am due back at work, a bunch of bills to my address, etc. Also if you are flying, the return ticket is evidence you are coming back.

[ga1jin 0]

I don't think it will hurt your case to come to the U.S. It's just a matter of whether they will let you in.

Just don't overstay your passport stamp!

Also, you might want to return home as soon as you get the NOA2 so you don't miss any attempts by your consulate to contact you.

[Steve'sGirl 0]

Yes, you can still travel once you receive NOA2. The approval notice is valid for 4 months, so it should not be a big deal if you don't send Packet 3 back immediately.

If you should decide to travel to the US, take lots of documents with you proving your ties to your homecountry. I also took a copy of the petition along.

All the best of luck!!!!!!!!!

[JillA 2]

Steve's Girl, I will be going to the US for the first time at Easter since receiving our NOA2... I have cleared customs so many times, usually they just ask why I am going, when I am coming back. Did you state to the officer you have a pending Visa, do you have to declare this info or can I just say what I normally do and only offer the info if they ask?! Even though I am prepared, it's still nerve-wracking!

[EmilyM 0]

Thanks for the info!

since im going through a border crossing, not customs, I dont think that they'll give me too much hassle. But I just want to be prepared in case. I got travel insurance on my ticket just incase they deny me entrance.

At the border I'm just going to give them as little info as possible, as usual. IE: "where you going?" "Seattle" " why are you going?" "to visit friends" if they know about my case then I'll be honest of course.

Edited March 12, 2008 by EmilyT

[Steve'sGirl 0]

Steve's Girl, I will be going to the US for the first time at Easter since receiving our NOA2... I have cleared customs so many times, usually they just ask why I am going, when I am coming back. Did you state to the officer you have a pending Visa, do you have to declare this info or can I just say what I normally do and only offer the info if they ask?! Even though I am prepared, it's still nerve-wracking!

Hi JillA,

I didn't mention anything when I went through immigration last month. I just filled out the regular forms. I had a ton of documents with just in case any questions came up. Everything went very smoothly. I would guess that they can see on their systems that you have a visa application pending because the officer went quiet for a little bit, looking at his screen. If the officer asks any questions, just answer them honestly and everything will be ok. Tell me about nerve-wrecking, my heart was beating like crazy since I had planned to pick out my wedding dress and take care of some more wedding preparations during my last trip.

Hope all will go smooth for you!!