Dear all,
My information is that a Canadian citizen with appropriate documents (valid Canadian passport, I-797B, I-129, ETA 9035) can get a stamp in the I-94 form/card, which is attached to/inserted in the passport at the port of entry, without needing a consular appointment. This stamp can be obtained up to 10 days prior to the validity period on the I-797B.
My questions are:
1. Does obtaining this stamp at the border cost me anything? Is there any reason I should go through the trouble and expense of the consular appointment, although it is not required?
2. Does the description of events above also work for my wife and child, both Canadian citizens, on H4 status? ie, they can be processed and stamped at the border, and at no additional cost, no need for a consular appointment.
3. The I-797 validity begins Jan 1. I plan to move Dec 1, then exit and re-enter the country Dec 22 on the H1b. Is there any reason this is a bad idea? Should I disclose this plan when I go Dec 1, under a tourist visa?
My sincere thanks for your replies.
My information is that a Canadian citizen with appropriate documents (valid Canadian passport, I-797B, I-129, ETA 9035) can get a stamp in the I-94 form/card, which is attached to/inserted in the passport at the port of entry, without needing a consular appointment. This stamp can be obtained up to 10 days prior to the validity period on the I-797B.
My questions are:
1. Does obtaining this stamp at the border cost me anything? Is there any reason I should go through the trouble and expense of the consular appointment, although it is not required?
2. Does the description of events above also work for my wife and child, both Canadian citizens, on H4 status? ie, they can be processed and stamped at the border, and at no additional cost, no need for a consular appointment.
3. The I-797 validity begins Jan 1. I plan to move Dec 1, then exit and re-enter the country Dec 22 on the H1b. Is there any reason this is a bad idea? Should I disclose this plan when I go Dec 1, under a tourist visa?
My sincere thanks for your replies.