u/ComfortableStress145

Background:

• Currently on H4 EAD
• Wife's H1B extension just approved
• My H4 extension and EAD renewal filed September 11, 2025 — still pending
• Both my H4 and EAD expire June 11, 2026
• Immigration attorney confirmed Mexico trip is valid strategy to get fresh I94 based on wife's approved H1B
• Fresh I94 will make pending H4 extension unnecessary — USCIS will automatically abandon it
• EAD renewal will NOT be affected per attorney advice

Question 1 : Road travel vs Air travel:

• Is it better to drive to Mexico border and do a same day or next day turnaround?
• Or is flying to Mexico and back faster/safer overall?
• Which port of entry is recommended for H4 holders doing this type of trip?

Question 2 : Anything to do before travel:

• Should I inform USCIS about the trip?
• Any specific documents to carry beyond passport, H4 visa stamp and wife's H1B approval notice I797?
• Any other preparation needed?

Question 3 : Minimum trip duration:

• Can I do a same day turnaround, exit and re-enter same day?
• I have heard there should be at least 1 day gap between exit and entry — is this true?
• What is the absolute minimum time I need to spend outside USA?

Question 4 : Risk of being outside during USCIS processing:

• Is my concern valid that USCIS could reject my pending case if they process it while I am outside?
• Any other risks I should be aware of?

TIA