Switching from TN to H1B

[sandy1975]

We're family of Canadian citizens. I am on TN and my family on TD. I got my i-797A (approved for change of status) for H1B. I plan to go to the border along with my family to get the status updated from TD to H4.

a. Do I need to carry any documentation or my approved i-797A enough?
b. Does my family need any documentation other than proving the relationship?

thanks

[AndrewLittle]

a. When you plan to go to the border to update your family's status from TD to H4, it's crucial to ensure you have all the necessary documentation in order to facilitate a smooth transition. While having your approved i-797A is a significant part of the process, you should also consider carrying additional documentation to support your case. This might include:

• Valid passports for you and your family members.
• Marriage certificate (if applicable) to prove the family relationship.
• Copies of your H1B approval notice (i-797A).
• Copies of your family members' TD status documents.
• Proof of your employment, such as an employment letter or recent pay stubs.
• Any other relevant documentation that demonstrates your eligibility for H4 status.

It's always a good practice to have extra documentation on hand to address any questions or concerns that may arise during the border processing.

b. Your family, while primarily needing to prove their relationship to you as the primary H1B visa holder, should also carry essential documentation. This may include:

• Valid passports for each family member.
• Marriage certificate (if applicable) to prove spousal relationship or birth certificates to prove parent-child relationship.
• Copies of your H1B approval notice (i-797A) to show the basis for the change of status.
• Copies of their TD status documents.
• Any other relevant documentation that supports their eligibility for H4 status.

It's important to emphasize the relationship between you as the primary H1B visa holder and your family members, as this is a crucial factor in their change of status. Having all the required documentation readily available will help ensure a successful transition from TD to H4 status at the border.

[sandy1975]

Being a Canadian citizen, can I just go to the port of entry or will I need an appointment? Does it have to be on a working day or can I go on Saturday or Sunday?