Savanna Hoffman
International students travelling to the United States receive an I-94 admission record, which serves as proof of their legal visitor status. This document is issued by Customs Border Protection (CBP) and includes information such as the student's entry date, port of entry, visa status, and how long they may remain in the country. The I-94 record can be accessed online through the CBP website, where students can retrieve a copy by providing their name, date of birth, and passport information. It is important for international students to keep their I-94 record and any associated passport stamps safe, as they may be requested by various offices and agencies during their studies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is I-94? | A number and admission record assigned electronically to international visitors, including students, when entering the U.S. by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. |
| Who assigns it? | U.S. Customs and Border Protection |
| Who gets it? | International visitors, including students |
| What does it include? | Entry date, port of entry, visa status, and how long one may remain in the U.S. |
| How to retrieve it? | Visit CBP's Form I-94 Web page, enter your name, date of birth, and passport information to retrieve your Form I-94. |
| What does it serve as? | Proof of one's ability to be present in the U.S. legally. |
| When is it issued? | Each time an international visitor enters the U.S. |
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What You'll Learn
Understanding what an I-94 record is
An I-94 record is an electronic arrival/departure record assigned to international visitors entering the U.S. by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It serves as proof of legal entry into the U.S. and includes information such as the visitor's entry date, port of entry, visa status, and how long they may remain in the country. Each I-94 record is assigned an individual 11-digit admission number, which may be needed for various purposes, such as at the Department of Motor Vehicles or for employment. This number is unique to each entry, as a new I-94 record and number are issued every time an international visitor enters the U.S.
The I-94 record is particularly important for nonimmigrants, such as international students, as it confirms their current immigration status and how long they are allowed to stay in the country. When entering the U.S. by air or sea, a CBP officer will issue an electronic I-94 during the admission process. In some cases, a passport admission stamp may also be provided, although these are being phased out at larger ports of entry. For land border crossings, travellers can apply for an I-94 in advance through the CBP GO mobile app or the official I-94 website, or in person at the point of entry.
While the I-94 record is typically issued electronically, travellers can also request a paper Form I-94. This can be printed from the I-94 website or obtained during the inspection process. Upon exiting the U.S., travellers issued a paper form must surrender it to a CBP officer or the commercial carrier. However, it is important to note that if an individual received an electronic I-94 and departs via land, their departure may not be recorded accurately, particularly if they are not a citizen of Canada or Mexico and do not re-enter the U.S. before their passport expiration date. In such cases, it is recommended to carry evidence of departure, such as entry stamps, transportation tickets, or receipts.
To summarise, the I-94 record is a crucial document for international visitors to the U.S., providing proof of legal entry and outlining their permitted duration of stay. It is important for individuals to understand the significance of this record and to ensure they comply with any necessary procedures, such as providing evidence of departure when exiting via land. By staying informed and proactive, international visitors can help ensure a smooth entry and departure process when travelling to and from the United States.
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How to access an I-94 record online
An I-94 is a record and admission number assigned to international visitors, including students, when entering the US. The record contains the visitor's entry date, port of entry, visa status, and how long they may remain in the US. International students can access their I-94 record and number online on the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to access your I-94 record online:
Step 1: Visit the CBP website
Go to the official website of the US Customs and Border Protection at https://www.cbp.gov. This is a .
Step 2: Navigate to the I-94 section
Once you are on the CBP website, look for the section dedicated to I-94 Arrival/Departure records. This section may be found under “Travel” or “International Visitors”. Here, you will find information about the I-94 process and requirements.
Step 3: Log in or create an account
To access your personal I-94 record, you may need to log in or create an account on the CBP website. This usually requires providing personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and passport details. Follow the instructions provided by CBP to create your account securely.
Step 4: Access your I-94 record
After logging in, you should be able to view and manage your I-94 information. You can see your most recent I-94 form, including the admission number and entry details. You may also be able to apply for a new I-94, extend your stay, or update your departure information.
Step 5: Download or print your I-94
It is recommended to keep a copy of your I-94 record for your own records. You can usually download or print your I-94 form directly from the CBP website. Having a physical or digital copy of your I-94 can be useful for various purposes, such as employment or visa extensions.
Step 6: Use the CBP app (optional)
CBP also offers a mobile app called CBP One, which allows you to access a digital version of your I-94 on your phone. You can download the app and use it to view your I-94 information, as well as receive notifications about your remaining time in the US. The app can be convenient for accessing your I-94 on the go.
Remember to keep your I-94 record and admission number safe and secure, as it serves as proof of your legal status in the US. You may need to present your I-94 during your studies or when requested by official offices or agencies. Additionally, each time you re-enter the US, a new I-94 record will be issued, so make sure to keep track of any updates or changes to your admission information.
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The difference between an electronic and paper I-94 form
The I-94 form is an Arrival/Departure document issued to nonimmigrants entering the United States. It outlines how long a student or scholar is allowed to stay in the country, proves that they arrived legally, and confirms their current immigration status. The form is assigned electronically to international visitors, including students, when entering the U.S. by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Historically, the I-94 form was a paper form that needed to be completed by foreign visitors to the U.S. However, in recent years, CBP has transitioned to an electronic format for the I-94 form. This change was implemented through an interim final rule (IFR) published in the Federal Register in 2013, which allowed for the I-94 to be in either paper or electronic format. The electronic format offers several benefits, including reduced costs for CBP, carriers, and foreign nationals, as well as streamlining the entry process and enhancing security.
The electronic I-94 record is created by CBP based on information collected via the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) and visa details transmitted by the Department of State. This automated process applies to nonimmigrants arriving at air and sea ports of entry, while those crossing land borders may still receive a paper I-94 card. The electronic I-94 can be accessed through the CBP website or the CBP GO mobile app, and it is recommended that individuals print their electronic I-94 record immediately after arrival.
The paper I-94 card, also known as the I-94W, is a physical document that was previously issued to foreign visitors upon entry to the U.S. It serves as proof of legal status and outlines the terms of their stay. The paper form includes an admission stamp or card with an entry date, port of entry, visa status, and duration of stay. Students and scholars are required to keep the paper I-94 card or the passport entry stamp for the duration of their visit and surrender it upon exiting the country.
In summary, the main difference between the electronic and paper I-94 forms lies in their format and the process of issuance. The electronic I-94 is generated automatically based on travel and visa information, while the paper I-94 was a physical form that needed to be completed manually. The electronic format offers convenience and efficiency, while the paper form required more manual processing and storage. It is important for international students to be familiar with the I-94 process, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining their legal status during their studies in the United States.
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The information contained within an I-94 record
The I-94 record is an electronic admission record assigned to international visitors entering the U.S. by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The I-94 record contains the following information:
- Entry date
- Port of entry
- Visa status
- Admit Until Date (how long the individual may remain in the U.S.)
The I-94 record serves as proof of the individual's legal presence in the U.S. and may be requested by various offices and agencies during their stay. It is important to note that a new I-94 record is issued each time an international visitor enters the U.S.
The I-94 record also includes an 11-digit admission number, which may be needed for certain purposes such as at the Department of Motor Vehicles or for employment. This I-94 number is unique to each record and changes every time a new record is created. As of May 2019, I-94 numbers are alphanumeric, consisting of 9 digits followed by a letter and then another digit.
The I-94 record is typically issued electronically, and individuals can access their I-94 information online through the CBP website or mobile app. However, in some cases, a paper I-94 card may be issued, which the individual must keep safe and surrender upon exiting the U.S.
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How to use an I-94 record to prove legal status
An I-94 record is an electronic admission record assigned to international visitors, including students, when entering the U.S. by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The record will list the visitor's entry date, port of entry, visa status, and how long they may remain in the U.S. This record serves as proof of the visitor's legal status in the U.S. and can be requested by various offices and agencies during their stay.
To use an I-94 record to prove legal status, international students can follow these steps:
Step 1: Locate your I-94 record and number
International students can look up their I-94 admission number and record online on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website or by using the CBP GO mobile app. The I-94 record will include an individualized 11-digit number, which may be needed for various purposes, such as employment or when visiting the Department of Motor Vehicles. It is important to keep this number and record safe and easily accessible throughout your stay in the U.S.
Step 2: Understand the information on your I-94 record
Your I-94 record will include important details about your legal status in the U.S. It will specify your entry date, port of entry, visa status, and how long you are permitted to remain in the country. If you are a student or scholar on an F or J visa, your passport admission stamp or I-94 card should have "D/S" written on it, indicating that you can stay in the U.S. as long as you maintain your status and your I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) has not expired.
Step 3: Provide your I-94 record when requested
During your studies in the U.S., various offices, schools, employers, or government agencies may request your I-94 record to verify your legal status. You may be asked to provide this record when applying for certain services, benefits, or employment opportunities. Always carry your I-94 record or a copy of it when travelling within the U.S., as it may be requested at any time to prove your legal status.
Step 4: Keep your I-94 record up to date
Each time you re-enter the U.S., a new I-94 record will be issued, and a new I-94 number will be assigned. It is important to keep your I-94 record and number current, especially if you plan to extend your stay in the U.S. or if there are any changes to your visa status. Additionally, if you cannot access your I-94 record through the CBP website, you may need to file Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Record, with USCIS.
Step 5: Surrender your I-94 record upon departure (if applicable)
If you were issued a paper Form I-94 upon entry, you must surrender this form upon exiting the U.S. by providing it to the commercial carrier, Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), or to CBP. However, if you received an electronic I-94, your departure may not be recorded accurately, especially if you depart via land. In this case, ensure you have evidence of your departure, especially if you are not a resident of Canada or Mexico and do not plan to re-enter the U.S. prior to the expiration date on your passport.
By following these steps, international students can effectively use their I-94 record to prove their legal status in the U.S. and comply with any necessary requirements during their stay.
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Frequently asked questions
The I-94 is an "Arrival/Departure Record" given to international students travelling to the United States. It records how long a student is allowed to stay in the country, proves they arrived legally, and confirms their immigration status.
International students are given an I-94 when they enter the US. If you enter by air or sea, you will be issued an electronic form. If you enter by land, you will be issued a paper form.
You can retrieve a copy of your I-94 online through the Customs Border Protection (CBP) website. You will need to enter your name, date of birth, and passport information.
The I-94 includes your entry date, port of entry, visa status, and how long you may remain in the US. It also includes an admission number, which may be needed at the Department of Motor Vehicles and for employment.
