What Is the Intent to Depart Feature?
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has added an Intent to Depart feature to its CBP Home mobile app. This tool allows travelers to officially report their departure from the U.S.—a crucial step for those needing to prove compliance with U.S. immigration laws.
This feature is especially helpful for:
- Canadians on long visits (snowbirds, business travelers, and frequent visitors)
- Foreign workers on H-1B, TN, or L visas who need to track their time in the U.S.
- Anyone needing to document their departures to avoid overstays or re-entry issues
Why This Matters for Canadians and Foreign Workers
For Canadians (Snowbirds, Visitors, and Business Travelers)
Many Canadians assume they can visit the U.S. for up to six months without any formal tracking. However, stays over 30 days require compliance with the Alien Registration Requirement:
- Staying over 30 days? You must ensure your entry and exit records are accurate.
- Staying over 180 days? You may need an I-94 record to prove you did not exceed the allowed time.
- Not reporting your exit? Future travel to the U.S. may be flagged, leading to delays or questioning at the border.
Using the Intent to Depart feature ensures your departure is officially recorded, helping to avoid any re-entry issues.
For H-1B, TN, and L Visa Holders
If you are working in the U.S. on an H-1B, TN, or L visa, keeping track of your time in the country is critical:
- Avoiding the 6-year cap (H-1B) or 3-year limit (TN/L-1) – If you plan to renew or extend your visa, accurate travel records are essential.
- Complying with visa conditions – Some visa holders must prove they have not overstayed or worked beyond their authorization.
- Re-entry and future applications – Having a clear exit history can prevent issues when applying for renewals or green cards.
By using the Intent to Depart feature, visa holders can maintain a precise record of their U.S. travel, which may be required for future immigration filings.
CBP Home App: Key Features for Travelers and Workers
The CBP Home App is a free tool that helps travelers and foreign workers stay compliant with U.S. immigration rules.
1. Intent to Depart – Report Your Exit
- Notify CBP when you leave the U.S. to keep travel records up to date.
- Helps avoid overstay flags and potential re-entry delays.
2. I-94 Processing – Essential for Long Stays and Work Visas
- Apply and pay for an I-94 up to 7 days before arriving in the U.S.
- Helps visa holders and long-term visitors track their travel history.
3. Border Wait Times – Plan Your Return
- Real-time updates on wait times at major border crossings.
- Useful for Canadian snowbirds and business travelers.
4. Inspection Appointments – For Business and Work Travel
- Schedule U.S. Customs inspections for goods and perishable items.
- Useful for Canadian businesses exporting to the U.S.
5. Bus Manifest Submission – Faster Processing for Bus Travelers
- Bus operators can pre-submit passenger manifests, reducing delays at the border.
How to Download and Use the CBP Home App
The CBP Home App is available for free download on:
- Apple App Store (iPhone/iPad)
- Google Play Store (Android devices)
- CBP’s official website
For Canadians, foreign workers, and frequent travelers, the Intent to Depart feature helps ensure compliance with U.S. travel rules. Whether you’re a snowbird, business traveler, or visa holder, using this tool can prevent unnecessary border issues and keep your travel records accurate.
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