Increased Scrutiny for Travelers Using Automatic Visa Revalidation
As U.S. border and immigration agencies enhance security protocols following the latest presidential travel bans, individuals returning to the U.S. under the Automatic Visa Revalidation (AVR) policy are reporting longer inspections, delays, and more frequent secondary screenings—especially those from countries newly subject to visa bans or heightened risk designations. USCIS-Guidance
What Is Automatic Visa Revalidation?
AVR allows certain nonimmigrants (e.g., F, J, H, L visa holders) to re-enter the U.S. without a valid visa stamp if they:
Have a valid I-94 form; I-94/I-95 Website - Official Site for Travelers Visiting the United States
Have traveled to Canada, Mexico, or adjacent Caribbean islands for 30 days or less;
Are not applying for a new visa during the trip;
Are not from a country designated as a state sponsor of terrorism or under a travel ban.
This provision is crucial for individuals whose U.S. visa has expired but who maintain valid nonimmigrant status in the U.S
What’s Changed in 2025?
Due to Presidential Proclamation 2025-10669, which bans or restricts travel from 19 countries, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have been directed to:
Conduct enhanced vetting of all travelers using AVR.
Flag travelers with national ties to banned countries (including dual nationals or prior to passport history).
Refer more cases to secondary inspection for detailed questioning.
Delay or deny re-entry if there is any ambiguity regarding visa status or eligibility.
Some travelers have reported being detained for hours at ports of entry or even denied re-entry, particularly those with complex immigration histories, recent visa expirations, or pending immigration benefit applications.
Who Is Most at Risk?
While AVR remains technically valid, the following groups face the highest scrutiny:
Nationals of or recent travelers to countries listed in the new travel bans (e.g., Iran, Yemen, Haiti).
Individuals with pending adjustment of status (Form I-485).
Travelers with expired visa stamps and new or complex change-of-status approvals (e.g., from F-1 to H-1B).
Dual citizens or people with previously issued passports from restricted countries.
Frequent travelers have used AVR multiple times in recent months.
Best Practices for AVR Travel in 2025
To minimize risk and ensure re-entry under AVR, we strongly recommend:
Carry a current I-94 and a copy of your approval notice (e.g., I-797).
Bring proof of continued nonimmigrant status (employment letter, school registration, etc.).
Avoid any visa applications while abroad—this voids AVR eligibility.
Ensure your trip is under 30 days and does not include stops outside Canada, Mexico, or eligible islands.
Avoid traveling if you are from or have ties to affected countries, even if you are otherwise eligible.