Going on a cruise is the dream of many who come here—to Miami. I’ve notice, over the years, the magic that the Port of Miami has over newcomers. Recently, I mentioned my observation to a new client and he, as he obviously would, said he had dreamed of going on one since he was a kid. The Bahamas was a dream-like place for him.

As the conversation progressed and we discussed his H-1B petition, he stopped for a second and wondered, Can I go on one? You now, with the H-1B? He was in the middle of planning his first vacation with his wife and children in a very long time. It all clicked. I’m writing this to answer his question.

(Hope this helps! Send me a postcard.)

Can H-1B Visa Holders Go on a Cruise?

A cruise is an amazingly fun trip for anyone and their family, one that I suggest dearly, and, as an H-1B visa holder, you should be able to go on a cruise with little to no distractions. However, there’s something important you need to think beforehand—before packing your bags and putting your children in their swimsuits, you must make sure you can get back.

Whenever you’re planning to leave the United States, make sure your travel documents are in order. As an H-1B holder, you need a valid passport and visa stamp in your passport to re-enter the United States. You also need your most recent approval notice (Form I-797) to show your H-1B status. If your wife is on H-4 status, she needs her own valid passport, visa stamp, and approval notice. It helps to carry copies of your recent pay stubs and your employment verification letter, too. If your visa stamp has expired, you may need to visit a U.S. consulate or embassy to renew it while you are abroad.

Different cruise lines and cruise itineraries have different rules. Some cruises that go from one U.S. port and return to the same U.S. port may have simpler re-entry rules. But some trips may include stops in other countries or territories. Those places may require a tourist visa for you or your family. It is wise to check with your cruise line and with the embassy of each place you plan to visit, as well as the cruise line’s rules for international passengers.

While you’re at it, since you want to be safe, it might also be best to talk with your employer’s immigration staff or a qualified immigration professional. At LOIGICA, we love to maintain constant communication; if you are one of our clients, feel free to give us a call. A quick conversation can make sure you know how to keep your H-1B status secure while enjoying your cruise vacation.

How Long Can I Stay Outside the Country?

I’m pretty sure you’ve heard about those cruises where people spent, if not months, years inside the boat. Not saying that that’s what you might be interested in. I’m not, for sure. But I know it makes you wonder… How long can you stay outside the States?

There is no set rule that says you must return to the U.S. by a certain date while on H-1B status. But the main idea of an H-1B visa is that you live and work in the U.S. for your sponsor. Long stays outside the U.S. may raise questions about your true workplace or your employer’s continued need for your services.

If you plan to be away for a long time, talk with your employer about how this might affect your job. Some employers worry that if you are gone for too long, you might no longer fulfill the terms of your H-1B. As always, the specifics vary by case.

In any case, go for it—get on that cruise and enjoy the beauty of the Bahamas. Look for one that stops in Cartagena. Such lovely beaches! And, remember, part of your planning should include talking to your lawyer and your employer. Better be safe than sorry!