If you’re in the midst of an immigration process, you’ve probably wondered: “Can I travel while my application is being processed?” This is a common question we receive from our clients, and, as is often the case in immigration matters, the answer is: “It depends!” Here are some points to help clarify the situation.
IT DEPENDS ON THE STAGE OF YOUR APPLICATION
An immigration process typically takes several months from initiation to the point where you can arrive, work, and reside in the destination country. The steps involved will vary depending on the country of origin, destination country, and the specific procedure chosen. However, in most cases, there are two main phases: BEFORE arrival (waiting for work authorization and work visa) and AFTER arrival in the destination country (applying for work/residence permits).
Before Arrival
Generally, traveling during the first phase is possible: your passport is available, and very few countries nowadays prohibit entry while your work authorization is pending. However, be cautious not to overuse this flexibility (see point 2 below).
After Arrival
Once you’ve arrived with your work visa, local procedures typically commence, such as medical examinations, applications for work permits, residence permits, security checks, etc.
Depending on the country, authorities may require you to stay for a certain period to complete these steps. Leaving the country before finalizing these procedures could result in your application being considered interrupted, necessitating a restart of the entire process.
For example:
- Egypt requires a “security check” during which you cannot leave the country—or you may not be allowed to re-enter until the check is completed.
- Franceissues short-term visas (around 3 months) for certain procedures, intended to be converted into residence permits upon arrival. Typically, these are multiple-entry visas allowing travel during their validity. However, due to processing times, conversions may not occur within the allotted 3 months, forcing individuals to remain in France with an expired visa while awaiting their residence permit (or at least a favourable decision certificate allowing travel). Leaving the country during this time would mean applying for a new visa and restarting the process.
IT DEPENDS ON YOUR PURPOSE FOR TRAVELING
As mentioned earlier, visiting the destination country during the initial stages of your application is generally permissible.
However, be aware that frequent visits during this time can raise suspicions of unauthorized work. Countries like the United States and Canada may scrutinize your reasons for entering on a business trip while awaiting a work permit. If your explanations are insufficient, you may be denied entry or face complications in obtaining your visa.
It’s advisable to limit business trips during the immigration process. If travel is necessary, provide the traveller with official documentation explaining the specific purpose of the visit (i.e., a legitimate business trip, not “working while awaiting authorization”).
IT DEPENDS ON THE STATUS AND NUMBER OF YOUR PASSPORTS
There may be instances where your passport is held by authorities, usually for visa endorsement. While it’s sometimes possible to negotiate retrieval from the Consulate or Visa Center, this isn’t common, so plan accordingly to avoid scheduling trips requiring your passport during this period.
For frequent travellers who have the option, obtaining a second passport is a viable solution—ensure it’s a long-term passport and not one valid for only 12 months, as the latter is increasingly less accepted. Always disclose the existence of a second passport to authorities when filling out forms to maintain transparency.
As always, navigating an immigration process requires strategic planning and foresight. While temporary restrictions may arise, proper anticipation can minimize stress and potential complications.
Oui Immigration is here to assist you with your immigration procedures, regardless of your country of origin or destination. We provide comprehensive timelines to help you plan ahead effectively. Contact us today! oui@oui-immigration.com
