Form I-94, the Arrival/Departure Record, is crucial for foreign visitors to the United States, and WHAT.EDU.VN offers simple, free answers to all your questions about it. This guide clarifies everything from electronic records to obtaining proof of legal visitor status, providing a seamless experience. Get expert insights on admission number verification and stay informed with the latest updates, including alphanumeric formats and travel authorization requirements.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Form I-94: The Basics
- Electronic I-94 Records: Transition and Benefits
- Obtaining Your I-94: Electronic vs. Paper
- Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and ESTA Requirements
- Verifying Your I-94 Information
- Departure Procedures and I-94
- I-94 Number Format Change: Alphanumeric I-94s
- Common Scenarios and Troubleshooting
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Form I-94
- Resources and Further Assistance
1. Understanding Form I-94: The Basics
Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record is a document issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to foreign visitors entering the United States; Understanding its purpose, requirements, and how it impacts your stay is essential for a smooth travel experience. Whether you need to prove your legal visitor status or understand the entry process, having accurate information is key. This guide offers expert information and insights for travelers visiting the United States.
What is Form I-94?
Form I-94, officially known as the Arrival/Departure Record, is a document issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to foreign visitors entering the United States. It serves as a record of your entry into the U.S., detailing your arrival date, visa type, and the date until which you are authorized to stay. Essentially, it is a crucial piece of documentation that proves your legal entry and authorized stay in the country.
The I-94 form is essential for various purposes, including:
- Legal Status Verification: It serves as proof of your legal status in the U.S., which is required for employment, education, and other official purposes.
- Tracking Entry and Exit: CBP uses the I-94 to track entries and exits, ensuring compliance with immigration laws.
- Eligibility for Benefits: Some benefits and services may require you to present your I-94 as proof of your legal stay.
Who Needs Form I-94?
Generally, most foreign visitors entering the United States need Form I-94. However, there are specific categories of individuals who are required to have one:
- Non-Immigrant Visa Holders: Individuals entering the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa (e.g., tourist visa, student visa, work visa) typically need an I-94.
- Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Travelers: Travelers entering under the Visa Waiver Program also need to have an I-94, which is electronically linked to their approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
- Individuals Entering from Canada or Mexico: Non-U.S. citizens entering the U.S. from Canada or Mexico often require an I-94, depending on their visa status and purpose of entry.
Is Form I-94 Required for US Citizens?
No, U.S. citizens do not need Form I-94. The I-94 form is specifically for foreign visitors entering the United States. U.S. citizens can use their U.S. passports, birth certificates, or other forms of identification to enter the country.
2. Electronic I-94 Records: Transition and Benefits
The transition to electronic I-94 records has streamlined the entry process for foreign visitors, enhancing efficiency and security. CBP now automatically gathers arrival and departure information from electronic travel records, reducing the need for paper forms. This shift not only saves time but also provides numerous benefits, including cost savings and improved accuracy.
How CBP Gathers Arrival/Departure Information
CBP now gathers travelers’ arrival and departure information automatically from their electronic travel records. This is done through:
- Airline and Vessel Manifests: Airlines and other commercial carriers submit passenger manifests to CBP electronically, which include details such as passport information, flight details, and visa information.
- Advance Passenger Information System (APIS): APIS collects data on passengers before their arrival in the U.S., allowing CBP to screen travelers in advance and streamline the entry process.
- Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA): For Visa Waiver Program travelers, ESTA provides CBP with pre-arrival information, which is used to determine eligibility for entry into the U.S.
Benefits of Automation
The automation of the I-94 process offers several significant benefits:
- Cost Savings: CBP estimates that the automated process saves the agency approximately $15.5 million annually by reducing the need for paper forms and manual data entry.
- Efficiency: The electronic system speeds up the entry process for travelers, reducing wait times at ports of entry.
- Accuracy: Electronic data capture minimizes errors associated with manual data entry, ensuring more accurate records.
- Security: The automated system enhances security by providing CBP with real-time data on incoming and outgoing travelers.
- Environmental Benefits: Reducing the use of paper forms contributes to environmental sustainability.
3. Obtaining Your I-94: Electronic vs. Paper
Depending on how you enter the U.S., you may receive an electronic or paper I-94. Understanding the process for obtaining either type and knowing how to access your records is essential. CBP provides several options to ensure you can easily obtain and verify your I-94 information.
Electronic I-94 Issuance
At land borders, travelers are now generally issued I-94s electronically. This means you will not receive a physical paper stub. Instead, your I-94 information is recorded electronically and linked to your passport.
Using the CBP GO Mobile App and I-94 Website
CBP encourages travelers to use the CBP GO mobile app or the CBP I-94 website to apply for their I-94. These tools allow you to:
- Apply in Advance: You can apply for your I-94 before arriving at the U.S. border, which can save time during the inspection process.
- Access Your Record: You can access your electronic I-94 record at any time to verify your admission information or provide proof of legal status.
- Print a Copy: If you need a physical copy of your I-94, you can print it from the CBP I-94 website or the CBP GO mobile app.
How to Get a Paper Form I-94
While electronic I-94s are standard, you can still request a paper form if needed. Here’s how:
- Print from the Website: You can print your own I-94 form from the I-94 website using the “Get Most Recent I-94” option.
- Use the CBP GO Mobile App: The CBP GO mobile app also allows you to print a paper copy of your I-94.
- Request at Inspection: If you prefer, you can request a paper form during the inspection process. However, note that these requests are typically accommodated in a secondary setting.
4. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and ESTA Requirements
For travelers entering the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), there are specific requirements related to ESTA and I-94. Understanding these requirements ensures a smooth entry process and avoids potential complications.
ESTA Requirement for VWP Travelers
An approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is now required for entry under the Visa Waiver Program. This must be obtained prior to arriving at the U.S. land border. ESTA serves as an advance screening tool, helping CBP determine whether a traveler is eligible to enter the U.S. under the VWP.
Applying for I-94 Under VWP
VWP travelers are encouraged to use the I-94 website or CBP GO mobile app to apply for an I-94 in advance. This streamlines the entry process and ensures that your travel information is accurately recorded.
Applying for I-94 Under VWP.
5. Verifying Your I-94 Information
Verifying your I-94 information is crucial for ensuring accuracy and avoiding potential issues related to your immigration status. CBP provides an online portal for accessing your I-94 record, making it easy to confirm your admission details.
Accessing Your I-94 Number Online
If you need the information from your Form I-94 admission record to verify immigration status or employment authorization, you are encouraged to get your I-94 number from the I-94 website or by using the CBP GO mobile app. This online tool allows you to:
- Retrieve Your I-94: Enter your passport information and other required details to access your I-94 record.
- View Admission Details: Check your admission date, visa type, and authorized stay period.
- Print Your I-94: Print a copy of your I-94 for your records or to provide as proof of legal status.
Why Verify Your I-94 Information?
Verifying your I-94 information is important for several reasons:
- Accuracy: Ensures that your admission details are recorded correctly.
- Proof of Status: Provides a reliable way to prove your legal status in the U.S. for employment, education, or other purposes.
- Avoiding Issues: Helps prevent potential issues related to your immigration record.
- Compliance: Ensures compliance with immigration laws and regulations.
6. Departure Procedures and I-94
Proper departure procedures are essential for maintaining compliance with U.S. immigration laws. Depending on how you entered the U.S. and your method of departure, there are specific steps you need to follow regarding your I-94.
Surrendering Paper Form I-94
If you were issued a paper Form I-94 upon arrival, you should surrender it to the commercial carrier, Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), or to CBP upon departure. This ensures that your departure is officially recorded.
Electronic I-94 Departure Recording
If you received an electronic I-94 upon arrival by air, sea, or land and depart via land, your departure may not be recorded accurately. CBP relies on various methods to record departures, but land border crossings can sometimes be challenging to track automatically.
Departing via Land Border
A departure will be recorded if you depart via land and re-enter the United States prior to the expiration date stamped in your passport. This is because your re-entry effectively updates your travel record.
Evidence of Departure
If you are not a resident of Canada or Mexico and you receive an electronic I-94 and depart via land but do not re-enter the United States prior to the expiration date stamped on your passport, you may want to travel with evidence of your departure into Canada or Mexico. Evidence of departure can include:
- Entry stamps in a passport
- Transportation tickets
- Pay stubs
- Other receipts
A traveler can request an entry stamp from CBSA when entering Canada or from the Instituto Nacional de Migracion (INM) when entering Mexico.
7. I-94 Number Format Change: Alphanumeric I-94s
In May 2019, CBP implemented a change to the I-94 number format, transitioning from numeric-only to alphanumeric. Understanding this change is important for travelers who may encounter both formats.
Understanding the New Alphanumeric Format
Previously, I-94 numbers were 11 digits long and contained only numbers. To minimize program impact resulting from the depletion of numeric-only I-94 numbers and to create a long-term solution for the creation of new numbers, CBP switched to alphanumeric I-94s.
The new I-94 numbers remain at 11 characters but follow the format of 9 digits, followed by a letter in the 10th position, and a digit in the 11th position.
Validity of Existing Numeric I-94s
Unexpired I-94s issued in the current numeric-only format continue to be valid until the Admit Until Date printed on the paper I-94 and/or the date displayed on the I-94 website. This means you don’t need to take any action if you have a valid numeric I-94.
8. Common Scenarios and Troubleshooting
Understanding common scenarios and knowing how to troubleshoot potential issues can help ensure a smooth travel experience. Here are a few examples:
Scenario 1: Entering the U.S. by Land
Situation: You are entering the U.S. from Canada by land and are not a U.S. citizen or resident.
Solution: Ensure you have the necessary travel documents (e.g., passport, visa). Apply for an I-94 using the CBP GO mobile app or I-94 website before arrival. If you prefer a paper form, request one during the inspection process, understanding that it may be processed in a secondary setting.
Scenario 2: Proof of Legal Visitor Status
Situation: You need to provide proof of your legal visitor status to an employer.
Solution: Access your I-94 record on the CBP I-94 website or through the CBP GO mobile app. Print a copy of your I-94 to provide as proof of your legal status.
Scenario 3: Discrepancies in Your I-94 Record
Situation: You notice an error in your I-94 record, such as an incorrect admission date.
Solution: Contact the nearest CBP Deferred Inspection Site or port of entry to correct the error. Provide supporting documentation, such as your passport and visa, to help resolve the issue.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Form I-94
Here are some frequently asked questions about Form I-94, categorized for easy navigation:
General Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the purpose of Form I-94? | Form I-94 serves as a record of your entry into the U.S., detailing your arrival date, visa type, and authorized stay period. |
| Who needs Form I-94? | Generally, most foreign visitors entering the United States need Form I-94, including non-immigrant visa holders and Visa Waiver Program travelers. |
| Is Form I-94 required for U.S. citizens? | No, U.S. citizens do not need Form I-94. |
| How long is my I-94 valid? | The validity of your I-94 depends on your visa type and the authorized stay period granted by CBP. Check the “Admit Until Date” on your I-94 record. |
| What should I do if I lose my I-94? | You can retrieve and print a copy of your I-94 from the CBP I-94 website. If you are unable to retrieve your record, contact the nearest CBP Deferred Inspection Site. |
Electronic I-94 Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How do I access my electronic I-94? | You can access your electronic I-94 on the CBP I-94 website or through the CBP GO mobile app. |
| Is an electronic I-94 the same as a paper I-94? | Yes, an electronic I-94 serves the same purpose as a paper I-94. The main difference is that it is stored electronically and accessible online. |
| What if I can’t find my I-94 online? | Ensure you are entering your passport information correctly. If you still cannot find it, contact CBP for assistance. |
| How does CBP gather arrival/departure information now? | CBP gathers travelers’ arrival and departure information automatically from their electronic travel records. |
Paper I-94 Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I still get a paper I-94? | While electronic I-94s are standard, you can request a paper form during the inspection process or print one from the CBP I-94 website. |
| What do I do with my paper I-94 when I leave the U.S.? | If you were issued a paper Form I-94 upon arrival, you should surrender it to the commercial carrier, Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), or to CBP upon departure. |
| What if I forgot to turn in my paper I-94 when I left the US? | Submit it to CBP along with supporting documentation to correct your travel record. |
VWP and ESTA Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do Visa Waiver Program travelers need an I-94? | Yes, travelers entering under the Visa Waiver Program also need to have an I-94, which is electronically linked to their approved ESTA. |
| Is ESTA required for VWP travelers? | Yes, an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is required for entry under the Visa Waiver Program and must be obtained prior to arriving. |
| Can I apply for an I-94 in advance if I am a VWP traveler? | Yes, VWP travelers are encouraged to use the I-94 website or CBP GO mobile app to apply for an I-94 in advance. |
Departure-Related Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How is my departure recorded if I leave via land? | A departure will be recorded if you depart via land and re-enter the United States prior to the expiration date stamped in your passport. If not, you may want to travel with evidence of your departure into Canada or Mexico. |
| What evidence of departure should I carry? | Evidence of departure can include entry stamps in a passport, transportation tickets, pay stubs, and other receipts. |
| Who should I contact if my departure was not recorded properly? | Contact CBP with evidence of your departure (e.g., copies of your passport, visa, boarding pass, or other travel documents) and request that they update your record. You can find contact information on the CBP website. Additionally, you may want to keep copies of your travel documents for future reference. |
10. Resources and Further Assistance
For more information and assistance, refer to the following resources:
Official CBP Resources
- CBP I-94 Website: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home
- CBP GO Mobile App: Available on the App Store and Google Play
- I-94 Fact Sheet: Available on the CBP website
Getting Help from WHAT.EDU.VN
Do you still have questions about Form I-94? At WHAT.EDU.VN, we understand that navigating immigration processes can be complex and confusing. That’s why we offer a free question-and-answer platform where you can get expert guidance on all your immigration-related inquiries. Whether you’re unsure about the latest regulations, need help filling out forms, or simply want clarification on a specific issue, our community of knowledgeable experts is here to assist you.
Address: 888 Question City Plaza, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
WhatsApp: +1 (206) 555-7890
Website: WHAT.EDU.VN
Don’t hesitate to ask your questions and get the answers you need to navigate the U.S. immigration system with confidence. Visit WHAT.EDU.VN today and experience the ease of getting reliable, free advice.
Ready to get your questions answered? Visit what.edu.vn and ask now for free!
