Form I-94, officially known as the Arrival/Departure Record, is a crucial document issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) through Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It serves to track the entry and exit of non-U.S. citizens into the United States, detailing the terms of their stay. This form is essential for anyone who enters the U.S. as a nonimmigrant, ensuring that they comply with immigration laws and regulations.
Purpose of Form I-94
The primary purpose of Form I-94 is to document and communicate the terms of a foreign national’s visit to the United States. It indicates critical information such as:
- Admission category: This reflects the visa type under which the individual was admitted (e.g., B-2 for tourists, F-1 for students).
- Duration of stay: The form specifies how long the individual is authorized to remain in the U.S., often indicated by a specific date or marked as “D/S” (Duration of Status) for certain visa holders.
- Legal entry proof: It serves as evidence that the individual entered the U.S. legally, which is vital for maintaining lawful status.
When you enter the U.S., a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will record your information electronically or stamp your passport. They may write “Duration of Status” (D/S) for students or exchange visitors, meaning you can stay as long as your visa is valid.
Who Needs Form I-94?
If you’re visiting the U.S. and you’re not a U.S. citizen, you probably need an I-94. This includes:
- Tourists visit for leisure or family visits.
- Students coming to study in the U.S.
- Temporary workers on short-term visas.
- Business visitors attending meetings or conferences.
- Individuals adjusting their immigration status or extending their stay.
Exceptions:
You don’t need an I-94 if you’re:
- A U.S. citizen or green card holder.
- A Canadian citizen visiting for less than six months.
- Traveling on the Visa Waiver Program (you’ll get an I-94W instead).
How to Get Form I-94
By Air or Sea:
- Travelers arriving by air or sea receive an electronic I-94 automatically upon entry. The CBP collects information from carriers before departure, which facilitates a seamless entry process.
- A CBP officer will stamp the traveler’s passport, indicating their admission date and immigration status.
By Land:
- Individuals entering through land borders may receive a paper version of Form I-94. This form must be retained until departure from the U.S.
- Travelers can also apply for a new I-94 online if they are entering by land.
Tip: Always keep your I-94 safe. You’ll need it for things like applying for a driver’s license, changing your immigration status, or proving your lawful stay.
How to Access or Replace Your I-94
Accessing Your I-94
You can view or print your I-94 record using:
- The I-94 Website: Enter your personal details to access your record.
- CBP One™ App: Download the app and follow the steps to retrieve your I-94.
Replacing a Lost I-94
- Before April 2013: Submit Form I-102 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and pay a fee of $560.
- After April 2013: Request a copy online for free through CBP’s website.
How Form I-94 Impacts Your Travel
Unique I-94 Number
Every I-94 has a unique 11-character number used to track your entry. This number changes every time you enter the U.S. and may be needed for:
- Employment records.
- Applying for a driver’s license.
- Keeping track of your travel history.
Departure Records
- By air or sea, your departure is automatically recorded by airlines or ships.
- By land, ensure your departure is recorded by handing in your paper I-94 or keeping proof, like tickets or receipts from Canada or Mexico.
Correcting Errors on Your I-94
- CBP Errors: Visit a CBP Deferred Inspection Site with your documents.
- USCIS Errors: File Form I-102 to request corrections.
Recent Updates You Should Know
- Electronic I-94s at Land Borders: All I-94s are now digital for land entries.
- CBP One™ Enhancements: The app now lets you apply for, view, and print I-94 records easily.
- Form I-515A Changes for Students: F, M, and J visa holders now submit documentation electronically.
- Ukrainian Parolees Extensions: Stay period extended until September 30, 2024.
Importance of Keeping Your Form I-94 Safe
Nonimmigrants need to keep their Form I-94 or its electronic equivalent safe throughout their stay in the United States. This document may be required for various purposes, including:
- Applying for employment
- Obtaining a driver’s license
- Enrolling in educational institutions
- Filing for immigration benefits
Replacing a Lost or Damaged Form I-94
If an individual loses their Form I-94 or it becomes damaged, they must take steps to replace it promptly. The process involves:
- Visiting the CBP website or calling their helpline.
- Completing Form I-102 if necessary.
- Providing documentation that supports their claim of lawful entry into the U.S.
In cases where individuals cannot produce their travel records, DHS may presume unlawful entry unless sufficient evidence is provided.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the US straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Green Card, Visitor Visa, or Study Visa, we handle every step from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need in the US. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
