The I-94 is a document issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that records the arrival and departure of non-U.S. citizens into and out of the United States. It serves as proof of a visitor’s legal status, indicating the date of entry, the class of admission (visa type), and the date by which the person must depart the U.S.
Obtaining Your I-94
Upon entry to the U.S., you’ll be issued an I-94 record. Historically, the I-94 was a small paper form issued at the port of entry. However, CBP transitioned to an electronic system in 2013, which allows travelers to access their I-94 records online. A physical I-94 may still be issued at land border crossings, but for most air and sea entries, the record is electronic.
Why is the I-94 Important?
The I-94 serves multiple critical functions:
- Proof of Legal Entry: The I-94 is your official record of entry into the U.S., proving that you entered lawfully. If you later apply for an immigration benefit, such as a visa extension, change of status, or a green card, this record is crucial in showing that you complied with U.S. immigration law.
- Defines Your Authorized Stay: The I-94 contains a specific date by which you must leave the U.S. This date might differ from the expiration date of your visa. It’s important to keep track of the I-94 expiration date because overstaying your authorized period can result in serious immigration consequences, including bars on re-entry.
- Required for Certain Applications: If you need to extend your stay in the U.S. or change your visa status, you will need the details from your I-94, such as the admission date and your current immigration status. The I-94 also comes into play when applying for a Social Security Number or employment authorization.
- Tracking Departures: When you leave the U.S., CBP uses the I-94 to record your departure, which helps ensure compliance with your authorized period of stay. If you overstay, CBP will have a record, and it could affect your ability to return to the U.S. in the future.
How to Retrieve Your I-94
Since the I-94 is now mostly electronic, you can easily access your I-94 record online through the CBP website. Simply visit the official CBP I-94 retrieval website, enter your personal information ( including your name, date of birth, and passport details), and view and download your I-94 record. You should retrieve your I-94 record soon after arriving in the U.S. to ensure all the information is correct. If there are any discrepancies, they should be addressed immediately with CBP. Understanding your I-94 and the role it plays in your stay in the U.S. is crucial for a smooth and compliant visit. Make sure to check your I-94 upon arrival, and always stay within the limits of your authorized stay to avoid complications with U.S. immigration authorities. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure that your time in the U.S. is both legally compliant and hassle-free.
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You may have questions regarding TN Visa or I-94. We invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
