Form I-94, also known as the Arrival/Departure Record, is an important document provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It helps keep track of travelers entering and leaving the United States. Here’s why it matters:
- Proof of Legal Entry: It confirms you entered the U.S. legally.
- Departure Deadline: It shows the date you need to leave the U.S.
- Duration of Stay: It specifies how long you can legally stay in the U.S.
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
- Your I-94 is created automatically when you go through customs at the airport or seaport.
- A CBP officer stamps your passport with your entry date, visa type, and departure date.
By Land
- I-94s are now electronic for land travelers.
- You can apply online through the CBP One™ app or the I-94 website before arriving at the U.S. border.
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.
Why Form I-94 Is Important
Form I-94 plays a critical role in your U.S. travel and immigration process. It helps track your entry, shows how long you can stay, and ensures your immigration record is in good standing.
For expert guidance and assistance with your immigration journey, contact Law and Visas today. We’ll help make the process stress-free and straightforward!
