Trackers / Document checklists
Document checklists
What to gather for stamping, a job change, your I-485, travel and a layoff. Tick items off as you go; your ticks stay in this browser. Print or save as PDF when you're done.
H-1B visa stamping abroad
Before a consular interview for a new H-1B visa stamp.
Identity and appointment
Your petition
Proof you have maintained status
Education and work history
Only if it applies
Good to know
- Check the consulate’s own page: document lists and interview-waiver rules differ by location.
- Carry originals and one set of copies. Keep everything in the same order as your petition.
- Administrative processing (221(g)) can take weeks. Don’t book a tight return date.
Check against: State Department: Temporary worker visas · State Department: DS-160 online application
Guide Not legal advice.
Changing jobs on H-1B
When you have an offer and your new employer is filing an H-1B transfer.
For your new employer’s lawyer
Before you resign
After you switch
Good to know
- Under portability you can usually start once the new petition is properly filed.
- Travelling abroad mid-transfer needs care: talk to the new employer’s attorney first.
Check against: USCIS: H-1B specialty occupations · USCIS: Change of address (AR-11)
Guide Not legal advice.
Filing your I-485 (employment-based)
When your priority date is current under the chart USCIS accepts that month.
Forms
Identity and civil documents
Status and employment
Good to know
- Check the Visa Bulletin page on USCIS for which chart applies before you file.
- Once filed, don’t travel without advance parole unless you hold a valid H-1B/H-4 visa and status.
- Children near 21: check CSPA before filing.
Check against: USCIS: I-485 · USCIS: Adjustment of status filing charts
Guide Not legal advice.
Re-entering the US after travel
Every trip abroad on H-1B or H-4.
Carry with you
After you land
Good to know
- Your I-94 end date, not your visa stamp, decides how long you can stay.
- Check current travel and stamping news before booking, especially around new fee or proclamation rules.
Check against: CBP: I-94 official website · USCIS: Travel documents
Guide Not legal advice.
The first week after a layoff
As soon as you learn your last day.
Get in writing
Gather for your next move
Decide
Good to know
- DHS proposed ending the 60-day grace period on September 11, 2026. It is not final yet; check the policy timeline before relying on it.
- Use the layoff clock to see your exact deadline.
- Book an attorney consult if you have a pending I-485 or a short I-94.
Check against: USCIS: Options after termination of employment
Guide Not legal advice.
How this works
These are general lists built from the official pages linked with each checklist. Requirements change and differ by consulate and case, so check the official page and your attorney's list before you file or travel.
An estimate, not legal advice. Your own case can differ; talk to an immigration attorney before acting on it.