SIX months in India while on H1B

[harsha]

HI,

My name is Harsha, I am on H1B for a small consulting company, I am in India since Sept 10 2011. I am looking to come back to US, I have my stamping done. So I am curious to know if there is any rule stating that a H1B holder should not stay away from US for more than six months i.e is it an issue if I come back after six months. What kind of documentation do I need to carry for port entry in USA. It would be very helpful if you reply to my question

[mannucool]

No need to worry u will be fine..just let ur employer know..

[maddygonemad]

I was in similar situation. I was in India for 9 months.

If you already have a contract position in US, then better carry a vendor letter or vendor contract or something. Very small probability that they will ask for the documents, but carry them to be safe.

Also avoid entering through new jersey/new york.

And carry a letter from your employer saying that you were on unpaid vacation for 6 months in India. If officer at port of entry asks, say that you were in india for family/personal reasons

[somename]

I think you will be fine. I would highly recommend to carry a letter suggested by maddygonemad just to be safe. I went to india for one month vacation i did the same. They did not ask for it but its good to have one.