I-94 Form
What is an I-94 Form?
An I-94 form is a document that records the admission of a non-immigrant visitor to the United States. It indicates the traveler’s authorized period of stay and their immigration status.
How to Get Your I-94 Form?
Historically, I-94 forms were physical cards that were stapled to the traveler’s passport. However, in recent years, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has transitioned to an electronic system.
To access your electronic I-94 record, you can use the CBP website or the CBP One app. You will need your Alien Registration Number (A-Number) to retrieve your I-94 information.
Why is the I-94 Important?
- Proof of Legal Status: It serves as proof of your legal presence in the U.S.
- Departure Date: It indicates the date you must depart the country.
- Visa Extension: It may be necessary for certain visa extensions or changes of status.
- Employment Authorization: It can sometimes be used to verify employment authorization.
Important Considerations
- Accurate Information: Ensure that the information on your I-94 is correct, especially your departure date.
- Departure Procedures: Adhere to the departure date on your I-94 to avoid legal issues.
- Visa Extensions: If you need to extend your stay, consult with an immigration attorney to understand the process and requirements.
Remember: The I-94 is a crucial document for maintaining your legal status in the U.S. It’s essential to keep track of its information and comply with all immigration regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
An I-94 form is a document that records the admission of a non-immigrant visitor to the United States. It indicates the traveler's authorized period of stay and their immigration status.
Historically, I-94 forms were physical cards. However, now they are electronic records. You can access your I-94 information through the CBP website or the CBP One app using your Alien Registration Number (A-Number).
The I-94 Form is important because:
- It serves as proof of your legal presence in the U.S.
- It indicates your authorized stay duration.
- It may be necessary for visa extensions or changes of status.
- It can sometimes be used to verify employment authorization.
Overstaying your I-94 can have serious consequences, including future visa bans and potential legal issues. If you overstay, it's crucial to depart the U.S. as soon as possible and consult with an immigration attorney to understand the potential consequences.
You can get more information about the I-94 Form and the CBP website or by contacting the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).