Visa Validity:

Visa validity generally means the visa is valid, or can be used from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel and for the same purpose for visas, when the visa is issued for multiple entry.  This visa expiration date is shown in the visa. Depending on the alien’s nationality, visas can be issued for any number of entries, from as little as one entry to as many as multiple (unlimited) entries, for the same purpose of travel.  This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel for the same purpose, when the visa is issued for multiple entry.  This time period from the visa issuance date to the visa expiration date as shown on the visa, is called visa validity.  If you travel frequently as a tourist for example, with a multiple entry visa, you do not have to apply for a new visa each time you want to travel to the U.S.  As an example for travel for the same purpose, if you have a visitor visa, it cannot be used to enter at a later time to study in the U.S.  The visa validity is the length of time you are permitted to travel to a port-of-entry in the United States to request permission of the U.S. immigration inspector to permit you to enter the U.S.  The visa does not guarantee entry to the U.S.  The expiration date for the visa should not be confused with the authorized length of your stay in the U.S., given by the U.S. immigration inspector at port-of-entry, on the Arrival-Departure Record, Form I-94, or I-94W for the Visa Waiver Program.  This visa expiration date has nothing to due with the authorized length of your stay in the U.S. for any given visit.

There are circumstances that can serve to void or cancel the period of time your visa is valid.  If you overstay the end date of your authorized stay, as provided by the DHS U.S. immigration officer at port-of-entry, or BCIS, then this action on your part generally will automatically void or cancel your visa.  However, if you have filed an application in a timely manner for extension of stay or change of status, and that application is pending and not frivolous, and if you did not engage in unauthorized employment, then this does not automatically cancel your visa.  If you have applied for adjustment of status to become a permanent resident alien (green card holder), you should contact the BCIS regarding obtaining Advance Parole before leaving the U.S.