What is i-94

The I-94 — issued by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — is key in deciding how long a traveler can remain in the country. Traditionally, what is i-94 the 1099 form was an actual paper document; however, it has now mostly become an electronic form, making the process easier. So this guide will help you understand: what is the I-94 form, its purpose, how to get it, and much more.

What is the What is i-94 Form?

The I-94 form, or Arrival/Departure Record, is the official form used by the CBP to record the arrival and departure of non-immigrant visitors to the United States. They also include vital details, such as the traveller’s admission date, class of admission, and their authorized period of stay. What is i-94 form is crucial to people entering the U.S. on a visa. It tells them how long they can legally stay in the U.S.

Who Needs an What is i-94?

• I-94 form is not applicable to every traveller entering into U.S. The following persons usually require an I-94:
• Foreign nationals coming to the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa (i.e., tourist, student, or work visa holders).
• Persons seeking a change or extension of their status
• Some need additional documentation if flying under visa waiver program (VWP).
• But U.S. citizens, permanent residents (green card holders) and most travelers covered by the Visa Waiver Program don’t get an I-94.

How to Obtain the What is i-94 Form

Electronic I-94

The electronic what is i-94 is given to most air or sea travelers entering the U.S. The traveler’s entry information would be recorded electronically by the CBP and the traveler can even retrieve their I-94 online by going to the CBP site.

Paper I-94

(Note: Travelers entering the United States by land (from Canada or Mexico) as well as travelers entering under certain circumstances may still be issued a paper I-94.) In such cases, the form is typically given at your border crossing; you need to retain it for your entire U.S. stay.

Importance of the I-94 Form

Some of the main functions of an what is i-94 form are:

Evidence of Legal Entry: The I-94 confirms that someone entered the United States legally.

Length of Stay: This determines how long someone can stay in a country.

Employment and Study Authorization: The what is i-94 is sometimes required for visa holders to show they are authorized to work or study in the U.S.

Adjusting Immigration Status: People seeking an extension of the visa, a change of status, or an adjustment of status (to that of a lawful permanent resident) must produce their I-94 as part of the application process.

How To Check I-94 Information and Correct It

It is important for travelers to review their what is i-94 information to ensure that it is accurate upon entry to the U.S. Errors in particulars, including name, date of birth, or the classification of visa can result in problems with legal status or travel plans. Travelers can access their electronic I-94 records online, and ask CBP to correct such errors when applicable.

Leaving the United States and Updates to What is i-94

The what is i-94 form also helps track when a traveler has left the U.S.:

Electronic I-94: When you depart through the air or by the sea, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency records your exit electronically.

Paper I-94: If you have a paper I-94, you must return the form to CBP officers at the port of exit or to airline staff prior to departure in order to have your record updated properly.

Common Issues and Solutions What is i-94

Lost I-94: If the traveller has a lost paper I-94, they should apply to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for a replacement using Form I-102.

Incorrect information: Travelers should contact CBP at the port of entry to correct mistakes.

Overstaying: When a traveler stays in the U.S. past the time prescribed by the I-94, there can be consequences, including visa revocation or a prohibition from entering the U.S. in the future.

Conclusion

What is i-94 form is an irreducible part of the U.S. immigration system for non-immigrant travelers. Knowing what it is and why it matters, as well as how to get it, will guide you toward a smooth and legal stay in the U.S. While the what is i-94 form can be printed electronically or filled out with pen and paper, it is important to keep track of your record to avoid issues with your immigration status in the US.