1. Official Proof of Legal Status:
The I-94 record issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) defines your immigration status and authorized stay in the U.S., not your visa or passport stamp.
2. Errors Can Lead to Unlawful Presence:
If your I-94 shows an earlier expiration date or wrong category (e.g., F-1 instead of H-1B), you could fall out of status without realizing it. Accruing unlawful presence can lead to:
- Ineligibility for change of status or extension.
- 3- or 10-year bars from reentry.
3. I-94 May Not Match Visa Approval:
Even if your visa petition (I-797) was approved for a longer duration, CBP officers sometimes issue I-94s with shorter periods, especially if passport validity is short.
How to Fix an Incorrect I-94:
1. Check Online:
Visit the CBP website: Click here Review your admission date, status, and expiration date. 2. If You Find an Error: (A) If Error Was Made by CBP (Clerical/Port Error):- Go to a Deferred Inspection Site, Find your nearest CBP Deferred Inspection Site here: Click here
Bring Supporting Documents:
- Passport and visa
- I-797 Approval Notice (if applicable)
- Copy of the incorrect I-94
- Proof of correct dates/status
- Most minor errors (e.g., wrong status or date) can be fixed same-day at no cost.
(B) If CBP Did Not Make a Mistake (e.g., short stay due to passport expiry):
- You may need to file a Form I-539 with USCIS to request extension or correction.
- Alternatively, exit and re-enter the U.S. with proper documentation.
Tips:
- Check your I-94 within 24 hours of entry—don’t wait until you apply for benefits or need to extend your status.
- If you’re working on an H-1B, L-1, or O-1 visa, make sure the I-94 matches the approval notice.
- Never overstay the I-94, even if your visa stamp or petition is valid for longer.
