How Your I-94 Record Affects Your Immigration Status

Published: February 10, 2025

Are you seeking entry to the US? Upon entry, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) checks nonimmigrant passports and visas to ensure compliance with US immigration laws. 

It’s a common misunderstanding that a visa determines one’s length of stay in the US. However, the final decision regarding the authorized stay of a nonimmigrant visitor rests with the CBP officer at the port of entry. They will issue the I-94 record, documenting the date you’re required to depart from the US. 

Leaving the US on time is crucial to maintaining a good immigration record and preventing problems during future visits. Hence, it’s imperative to understand the entries on your I-94 record. We’ll explore everything you need to know about your I-94 record and how it affects your immigration status in this post. 

Understanding Your I-94 Record

Travelers automatically receive an electronic I-94 at the point of entry to the US. The system generates it when going through the customs process at the airport or seaport. Recently, those crossing land borders can also acquire their I-94 record electronically instead of receiving a paper stub. 

Whether electronic or paper, securing your I-94 is important. Officially called the arrival/departure record, your I-94 contains key information that impacts your stay in the US. Here are a few details you need to be mindful of: 

Duration of status

The I-94 record will indicate D/S or duration of status, specifying the length of time you’re authorized to remain in the US. Typically, it depends on the terms and conditions of your status, such as whether you’re a student or an exchange visitor. 

Suppose your I-94 specifies a departure date. You must depart by the expiration date on your I-94 to avoid a lapse in your immigration status. For instance, a student visa authorizes a visitor to stay in the US while maintaining a valid status as a student. That generally means until completing their academic program at an accredited educational institution.

For instance, a student visa permits a visitor to remain in the United States while maintaining valid student status, generally until the completion of their academic program, as indicated by the program end date on the I-94 record. 

Admission number

Every I-94 contains an eleven-digit admission number that may be necessary for purposes, It’s your special identification code as you enter the US. Remember, you use this number to track and manage your immigration status, including your authorized stay in the country. 

You may also need it for various immigration-related duties, such as employment verification or at the Department of Motor Vehicles. Thus, it’s imperative to always keep your admission number safe and convenient for access. 

How the I-94 Record Affects Your Immigration Status

Your I-94 record provides official proof of your lawful admission to the US and specifies the authorized stay as determined by the conditions of entry. It’s essential to understand how it can affect your immigration status, future goals, and eligibility for benefits. 

Maintaining valid status

Your I-94 record identifies your authorized stay in the US. You must leave the country by the expiration date on your I-94 or apply to USCIS for an extension or change of status before that date. Note that a valid visa doesn’t protect you from the consequences of overstaying your I-94. Doing so can lead to unlawful presence and future visa problems.

Consequences of overstaying

Exceeding the authorized period of stay indicated on your I-94 record constitutes a violation of immigration. As a result, you may lose your eligibility for future immigration benefits. Since staying beyond the approved duration of stay accrues unlawful presence, you can be subject to a 3- or 10-year ban from reentering the US, depending on the length of the overstay. 

Erroneous I-94 record

Since your I-94 documents your legal status and authorized stay in the US, any errors on your record can cause serious problems. Common I-94 errors include incorrect visa status or end dates. 

It’s necessary to have your I-94 corrected if you find an error in your I-94 record. Report them to CBP as soon as possible to prevent future immigration issues. You must contact the CBP’s Deferred Inspection unit at your nearest airport to request an I-94 correction. 

Contact ALG Lawyers for Your Immigration Concerns

Staying past the authorized duration can affect your ability to reenter the US. You’ll need to meticulously check your I-94 after every entry to avoid issues that can affect your immigration status and future travel. 

An experienced Los Angeles immigration lawyer can be beneficial in ensuring you understand your I-94 record for compliance. Our team at ALG Lawyers is here to help you with any immigration concerns. Contact our firm for an initial consultation and assistance.