Form I-94, also known as the Arrival/Departure Record, is a key document issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) when you enter the United States. This form is crucial because:
- It shows that you entered the U.S. legally.
- It specifies your Admit Until Date, which tells you when you must leave the U.S.
- It indicates the duration of your authorized stay in the U.S.
Where to Find Your “Admit Until Date”
Your “Admit Until Date” is found on either your stamped passport or your electronic or paper I-94 record. This date tells you how long you are allowed to stay in the U.S. For some people, like students and exchange visitors, the stamp may say “D/S” (Duration of Status), meaning you can stay as long as your visa remains valid.
Who Needs an I-94?
Most travelers to the U.S. who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents need an I-94. This includes:
- Tourists: Those visiting for leisure or to see family and friends.
- Students: People coming to study at U.S. schools.
- Temporary Workers: Individuals working in the U.S. on a short-term basis.
- Business Visitors: People attending meetings or conferences.
- People Changing Immigration Status: Those adjusting their status while in the U.S.
- Those Extending Their Stay: Individuals who want to stay longer than originally permitted.
However, you don’t need an I-94 if you are:
- A U.S. citizen (natural-born or naturalized).
- A green card holder (lawful permanent resident).
- A person with an immigrant visa (entering the U.S. to live permanently).
- A Canadian citizen (unless staying for over 6 months).
- Someone using the Visa Waiver Program (you get a different form, I-94W).
How to Get Your I-94
Arriving by Air or Sea:
- If you arrive by air or sea, you will automatically receive an electronic I-94 when you go through customs.
- The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will stamp your passport, and your I-94 will be linked to this entry. Your stamp will include the date you entered and your authorized stay period.
Arriving by Land:
- Since 2024, travelers entering the U.S. via land borders now receive an electronic I-94.
- Before arriving, it’s recommended to use the CBP One™ mobile app or the CBP I-94 website to apply for your I-94.
- If you’re from a Visa Waiver Program country, you must also obtain approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
Why You Should Keep Your I-94 Safe
Whether your I-94 is electronic or paper, keep it safe because you will need it for several purposes, including:
- Proof of your lawful entry.
- Proof of your legal status for jobs or a driver’s license.
- Verifying your departure date when leaving the U.S.
When you leave the U.S., paper I-94 forms must be handed to the border officer. For electronic I-94s, ensure your departure is recorded properly.
How to Get a New I-94
If you need to apply for a new I-94, especially when entering by land, follow these steps:
- Cost: It costs $6 per person.
- Time Frame: You must enter the U.S. within 7 days after applying for your I-94; otherwise, your application expires.
- Documents Needed: Have your passport and visa details ready, and be prepared to show proof of your travel plans, residence, and employment.
How to Access and Print Your I-94
You can easily access and print your I-94 online:
- Using the CBP One™ app: Download the app and follow the instructions to retrieve your I-94.
- Using the I-94 website: Visit the website, click “Get Most Recent I-94,” and enter your details.
Understanding Your I-94 Number
Every I-94 has a unique number assigned to your entry. The new format for I-94 numbers includes 11 characters: nine numbers, a letter, and a final number.
Leaving the U.S.
It’s important to properly record your departure:
- By Air or Sea: Your departure will be automatically recorded.
- By Land: If you have a paper I-94, return it to the officer. For electronic records, make sure your departure is tracked by keeping proof, like a stamp on your passport from a neighboring country, travel tickets, or receipts.
Checking Your Travel History and Status
You can view your I-94 travel history on the CBP website. This will show your most recent travels to the U.S. for up to 5 years.
To check your current status, use the “View Compliance” option to verify how long you can stay and ensure you haven’t overstayed.
What to Do if There’s a Mistake on Your I-94
If your I-94 has incorrect information, the steps you take depend on the error:
- For errors made by CBP: Visit a CBP Deferred Inspection Site with your relevant documents.
- For USCIS errors: File Form I-102 online to correct it.
Replacing a Lost I-94 Form
If you lose your I-94, you can request a replacement:
- For arrivals before April 2013: Submit Form I-102 to USCIS with a fee of $560.
- For arrivals after April 2013: Get a copy of your I-94 through the CBP website, free of charge.
You can also request your I-94 through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), but this may take up to a year.
Important Updates to Form I-94
- Electronic I-94 at Land Borders: Since 2024, land travelers now receive electronic I-94s.
- Form I-515A for Students: International students must now submit Form I-515A electronically.
- Ukrainian Parolees: The stay for Ukrainian nationals under humanitarian parole has been extended to September 30, 2024.
- Form I-9 Expiration: The expiration date for Form I-9 has been extended to May 31, 2027.
Form I-94 FAQs
How do I find my I-94 travel record?
Access your I-94 online through the CBP website by entering your passport information.
What if my I-94 is wrong?
Correct any errors by contacting USCIS or visiting a CBP Deferred Inspection Site.
Can I combine paper and electronic I-94 records?
If your records are mixed, ensure you keep proof of your departure for future visits.
Form I-94 is an essential document for most visitors to the U.S., whether for tourism, business, or study. By understanding the process, you can make sure your stay in the U.S. is smooth and legally compliant.
