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Form I-94 arrival-departure record for U.S. visitors

Forms I-94 and I-94W (for nonimmigrants with a visa waiver) record the arrival and departure dates of people visiting the U.S.

Who needs an I-94 form

Everyone entering the U.S. needs an I-94 or I-94W form except:

• American citizens
• Returning resident aliens
• Non-U.S. citizens with immigrant visas
• Most Canadian citizens who are visiting or in transit

How to apply for or see your current Form I-94

Download the CBP One app on your cell phone or tablet or visit the official Form I-94 website to:

• See your most recent I-94 form and print it, in case you need your record of legal admission to the U.S. The CBP One app also allows you to have a digital version of your I-94 on your phone
• Request an I-94 if you are traveling by land. You can apply for an I-94 and pay the $6 fee in advance, to save time at the land port of entry. (If you are traveling by air or sea, you will receive an I-94 at your port of entry during the admission process.)
• Get a history of your arrivals and departures from the U.S. for the last 10 years
• Find out how long you are legally allowed to stay in the US
• Read frequently asked questions about the I-94

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) sends visitors email reminders about their remaining time in the U.S. In addition, it sends notifications to travelers who may have exceeded their admission period.

I-94W for travelers traveling under the Visa Waiver Program

Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries must have an approved and current authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to apply for their I-94W in advance through the CBP One app or the Form I-94 web page.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, Information for Completing USCIS Forms

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issues Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record , to aliens who are:

• Admitted to the U.S.;
• Adjusting status while in the U.S.; or
• Extending their stay. 

All persons need a Form I-94 except U.S. citizens, returning resident aliens, aliens with immigrant visas, and most Canadian citizens visiting or in transit. Air and sea travelers will be issued I-94s during the admission process at the port of entry .

A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer attaches Form I-94 to the nonimmigrant visitor’s passport upon entry to the U.S. The visitor must exit the U.S. on or before the departure date stamped on the Form I-94. This is the “Admit Until Date” on the electronic Form I-94. The Form I-94 number also is known as the Departure Number or Admission Record Number.

As of April 30, 2013, most Arrival and/or Departure records are created electronically upon arrival.

Visit CBP’s I-94, Travel Records for U.S. Visitors website to:

• Apply for a new I-94 (land border travelers only) ;
• Get your most recent I-94 ;
• View travel history ; or
• See how much longer you can remain in the U.S. based on the terms of your admission .

If you cannot get your Form I-94 from the CBP website, you may file Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Record , with USCIS.

Related Links

• Applying for Admission into United States
• Arrival/Departure Forms: I-94 and I-94W
• I-94 Fact Sheet (PDF)
• I-94 Expiration Dates (PDF)

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The Form I-94 is a lawful record of your admission to the United States (U.S.) issued by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) each time you enter the U.S. Your I-94 confirms that you have been legally admitted to the U.S. in a specific visa status for a particular period of time. You may need a printed copy of your I-94 to obtain benefits from 3 rd parties such as employers, the Social Security Administration or the Department of Motor vehicles.

Access your I-94 Each Time You Enter the U.S.

• If you enter the U.S. through a land border (vehicle or pedestrian crossing), CBP will  only issue a paper I-94, and only if you request it before entering the U.S.
• STEP 1: Access your electronic I-94 each time you enter the U.S. through an airport or seaport by clicking/tapping on the yellow button below.
• The " Admit Until " date should indicate " D/S ", which means “Duration of Status.” This notation means that you can remain in the U.S. for the duration of your academic program as long as you maintain your visa status .
• The " Class of Admission " should be F-1 or J-1 (depending on your student visa type).
• If your I-94 contains errors, contact ISPO   to discuss how to correct your I-94 at a CBP Deferred Inspection site.
• STEP 3: Download and save and/or print out your electronic I-94 to keep it with your other immigration documents. It will only be available to you while you are in the U.S., but once you depart the U.S., you will no longer be able to access it online.

 Travel History

• Keep in mind that travel history errors and inconsistencies are common.
• The following travel may not be reflected in the travel history: land border arrivals/departures, closed loop cruise arrivals/departures, air carrier reservation updates, and USCIS updates, changes of status, and extensions of stay or adjustments of status.
• You can find an electronic version of your travel history here , but if you need an official copy for some reason, you may request it here .

Review These Tips if You are Having Problems Locating Your I-94

Useful tips for locating your i-94:.

• Wait 2-3 days after arrival in the U.S. for the system to update with your information.
• Enter the name as stated in the passport, visa, or the submitted Form DS-160. Although U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has stated it would draw the name for the Form I-94 from the travel document (e.g., passport biographic page), that is not always the case. The instructions on CBP’s website state that the name is drawn from the visa, if any. Therefore, check the passport, visa, and a copy of the submitted Form DS-160 (if available) for name variations. Try entering the name as stated on each document.
• Enter the first and middle name in the First Name field. In the first name field, type the first and the middle name (if any) with a space in between. Do this even if the middle name is not stated on the passport or visa.
• Switch the order of the names. Switch the last and first name when entering the information on the website. Some countries state the name in the passport as first name, last name, rather than the more standard order of last name, first name. This may cause the name to be recorded incorrectly in the CBP system.
• Enter multiple first names or multiple last names without spaces. If a person has two first names or two last names, type the first names without a space between them or the last names without a space between them. Example: type the first names “Mary Jane” as “Maryjane”
• Check for birthdate. Try inverting the month and day. Example: Birth Date July 9, 1980 correctly entered would be 1980 July 09; try instead 1980 September 07. Note: an incorrect DOB in the entry record may cause SSA and DMV to be unable to verify the record, so Deferred Inspection may need to correct this. Please see further notes on contacting CBP below.
• When both letters and numbers appear in the passport number, try entering a space after the letter(s). Example: Passport number LA497327: try entering LA 497327.
• Also try the passport booklet number; sometimes the booklet number differs from the number on the bio page.
• If the valid visa is in an expired passport, try entering the old passport number instead of the new one used for entry.
• For Mexican passport entries, try eliminating the first 2 digits of the passport number. Also try dropping the last 2 digits.
• Do not enter the year if included in the passport number. Some passport numbers may begin with the year in which the passport was issued, causing the number to be too long for the relevant field in CBP’s automation system. If relevant, try entering the passport number without the year. For example, a Mexican passport that was issued in 2008 may have a passport number that starts with “08” followed by nine digits. Try entering the passport number without the “08.” This problem should not arise for newer Mexican passports, as those passports do not begin with the year.
• Check the Classification. Check the classification designated on the visa and compare it to the classification stated on the admission stamp in the passport, as there may be a slight variation. Be sure to try both designations. For example, the visa may state “E-3D” for an E-3 dependent, but the admission stamp may state only “E-3.” The automated I-94 could state the classification either way.

Accessing a Missing I-94 or Fixing Error on I-94 with CBP

If you are unable to access your I-94 or if you notice an error on your I-94, such as incorrect name, incorrect visa status, or specific end date rather than D/S (except if you have receive a Form I-515 when entering the US), you must request a correction of your I-94 by doing the following:

• Send an email to the CBP Deferred Inspections Office at [email protected] explaining the issue and the correction that you are requesting.
• You will receive a standard reply email with some general information about the correction process, a list of documents that may be required, and a PDF attachment of the “Application for Correction of Arrival/Departure Form (I-94).”
• Email the completed application and scanned documents back to [email protected]

The “Application for Correction of Arrival/Departure Form (I-94)” should be straightforward to fill out. It will ask for the following information:

• Your full name
• Passport Information
• U.S. Visa Information
• Most Recent U.S. Arrival Information (Class of Admission is the type of Visa you entered under, as listed on the I-94, even if incorrect. If you are unable to access your I-94, list the Visa type you would have entered the US under, such as F-1 or J-1.)
• U.S. Address
• Applicant Certification (Your Signature)

Your request will be processed when all the required documents are received. You will not receive a response when the correction(s) are complete. You will need to check the CBP's I-94 website https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home periodically to see if your I-94 has been updated.

You will be contacted by email only if more information is needed and/or a personal appearance is required. It can take between 5 to 7 business days for updates/corrections to be processed by the CBP Deferred Inspection Office.

If your I-94 is not corrected through the steps above, your F-1 or J-1 status or the benefits of your status may be negatively impacted. Follow up with ISPO if you have any issues or questions about the I-94 correction. You may either meet with an ISPO Advisor through Virtual Drop-In Advising (Zoom) or come during our In-Peron Front Desk Hours .

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Home » Guide to Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record

Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record

Form i-94 explained, what is form i-94, arrival/departure record.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issues Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record , to certain foreign nationals at the time of entry. They do not issue an I-94 arrival/departure record to U.S. citizens, permanent residents (green card holders), returning resident aliens (SB-1 visa holders), or most Canadian citizens visiting or in transit. USCIS may also issue a Form I-94 as part of granting a foreign national an extension of stay or change of status. All other foreign nationals should be aware of their I-94 when: 

• Admitted to the U.S.;
• Adjusting status while in the U.S.; or
• Extending their stay.

The purpose of Form I-94 is to communicate the terms of a foreign national's visit to the United States. It indicates information such as admission category and the expected departure date. But it also serves as proof of a non-citizen's lawful entry to the U.S. It's an essential document when applying for many other immigration statuses.

Foreign nationals who visit the United States through the Visa Waiver Program do not get Form I-94. Instead, they receive Form I-94W (Nonimmigrant Visa Waiver Arrival/Departure Record).

How to Find Your Arrival/Departure Record

Where to get form i-94.

Most people can retrieve their I-94 arrival/departure record online from a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website. However, CBP continues to issue paper-based arrival/departure records for some situations.

There’s no need to request an I-94. CBP automatically issues the electronic I-94 at entry through an airport or seaport. If you entered through a border crossing, CBP generally issues a paper Form I-94 with some exceptions as described below.

Electronic I-94 Record

Since May 2013, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has automatically issued an electronic Form I-94 to travelers entering at air and sea ports. However, CBP doesn't issue the electronic I-94 directly to the traveler. Travelers must go to CBP’s I-94 website to obtain the electronic I-94 arrival/departure record. From here, you can print a document for your records.

The website also includes travel history from the previous 10 years of arrivals and departures. The travel history is an informational tool; it is not an official record for legal purposes.

Paper I-94 Record

Prior to May 2013, all foreign visitors received a paper I-94 arrival/departure record much like the sample. However, CBP continues to issue paper I-94 records in certain situations.

Since electronic I-94 arrival/departure records are only issued at air and sea ports of entry, a paper Form I-94 is still issued at the land border ports of entry. CBP also continues to provide a paper Form I-94 to certain classes of aliens, such as refugees, certain asylees and parolees, and whenever CBP determines the issuance of a paper form is appropriate.

Travelers can speed up their entry into the U.S. by providing their biographic and travel information, and paying the $6 fee for their I-94 application online up to seven days prior to their entry. You'll receive a provisional I-94 after submitting your application and payment.

Anatomy of an I-94

What does form i-94 look like.

The arrival/departure record contains important information regarding a foreign national's visit to the United States. The information is critical to knowing the extent of your authorized stay and staying "in status." The highlighted fields below are commonly needed when applying for certain immigration benefits. On the CBP website, you may print a copy like the sample Form I-94 below.

Admission (I-94) Record Number : Also known as the I-94 Number, Departure Number or Admission Record Number, it is an 11-character alphanumeric number. It provides a unique number for reach entry. Most Recent Date of Entry : This date should reflect the exact date that you were admitted to the United States. This can vary slightly from the date you physically entered the country if your inspection was outside the United States. Class of Admission : This code describes your category of nonimmigrant status. For example, it may indicate B-2 for leisure visitor or F-1 for student. Admit Until Date : This is the day your immigration status expires in the U.S. You must exit the U.S. on or before the Admit Until Date. For students and other exchange visitors, this date is “D/S” or Duration of Status. For other visa classifications, this will be a hard end date.

I-94 Troubleshooting Tips

What can i do if the cbp site doesn't find my record.

If you are having difficulty finding your electronic I-94 record using CBP's I-94 website , the American Immigration Lawyers Association recommends using the following troubleshooting tips:

• Enter the name as stated on your travel document (i.e. passport). If you are not successful using the passport, try using your visa or the submitted Form DS-160 (if available) for name variations. Try entering the name as stated on each document.
• Enter the first and middle name in the First Name field. In the first name field, type the first and the middle name (if any) with a space in between. Do this even if the middle name is not stated on the passport or visa.
• If this is not successful, try to switch the order of the names. Switch the last and first name when entering the information on the website. Some countries state the name in the passport as first name, last name, rather than the more standard order of last name, first name. This may cause the name to be recorded incorrectly in the CBP system.
• Enter multiple first names or multiple last names without spaces. If a person has two first names or two last names, type the first names without a space between them or the last names without a space between them. Example: type the first names “Mary Jane” as “Maryjane.”
• Check for multiple passport numbers. Check the Form DS-160 (if available) for the passport number stated. If the passport number on the Form DS-160 is different than the passport number on which the person was admitted, type the passport number as stated on the submitted Form DS-160. Also, check the passport number stated on the visa. If the passport number is different than the current passport, enter the passport number stated on the visa.
• Do not enter the year if included in the passport number. Some passport numbers may begin with the year in which the passport was issued, causing the number to be too long for the relevant field in CBP’s automation system. If relevant, try entering the passport number without the year. For example, a Mexican passport that was issued in 2008 may have a passport number that starts with “08” followed by nine digits. Try entering the passport number without the “08.” This problem should not arise for newer Mexican passports, as those passports do not begin with the year.
• Check the classification designated on the visa and compare it to the classification stated on the admission stamp in the passport, as there may be a slight variation. Be sure to try both designations. For example, the visa may state “E-3D” for an E-3 dependent, but the admission stamp may state only “E-3.” The automated I-94 could state the classification either way.

If none of the above efforts resolve the issue in locating your electronic I-94 record, telephone or visit a CBP Deferred Inspection Office and explain the problem. Over the years, we've seen several cases with visitors who were never issued a record. Contact the CBP with your flight information. Some of the Deferred Inspection Offices have been able to resolve the problem over the phone without an in person visit; however, other offices may require an in-person visit with the non-citizen.

Fixing an Incorrect Form I-94

What do i do if my arrival/departure record has incorrect information.

If you have an incorrect I-94 record, there is generally a way to fix it. A misspelled name or incorrect entry date may lead to confusion on other applications. Both Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may issue a Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. If a mistake was made by you or the government, you’ll need to correct it.

Correct an Arrival/Departure Record Issued by CBP

If Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued your I-94 record, you'll need to visit the CBP Deferred Inspection Office closest to your location. Most foreign nationals receive an I-94 from CBP at the time of entry in one of the following ways.

• Electronic I-94 : Issued to the vast majority of foreign national visitors at air and sea ports of entry.
• Paper I-94 : Issued at land border ports of entry and to certain classes of aliens, such as refugees, certain asylees and parolees, and whenever CBP determines that issuance of a paper form is appropriate.

Sometimes CBP may issue an incorrect I-94. Common errors include incorrect entry dates or misspelled names. In many cases, these errors can easily be corrected. If you arrived at an airport, you can generally contact the CBP office inside the airport and request a correction.

When the airport does not have a CBP office, contact the closest CBP Deferred Inspection Site or call CBP at 1-877-CBP-5511 (1-877-227-5511). You may be required to visit the office with documentation (passport and visa) and your incorrect I-94 record.

Correct an Arrival/Departure Record Issued by USCIS

In some cases, USCIS issues a Form I-94 as part of granting a foreign national an extension of stay or change of status. If USCIS issued your Form I-94, you will need to file a Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document .

When filing Form I-102 due to an incorrect I-94 record, you will need to submit a filing fee and supporting documentation that provides proof of the correct information. Attach a statement dated and signed by you, explaining specifically what information on your I-94 record is incorrect. You must also attach evidence verifying the validity of the information submitted for correction purposes. Finally, you must submit your original, incorrect I-94 with the I-102 application.

If the mistake on your Form I-94 record is due to a USCIS error, you'll need to request a correct I-94 through an Infopass appointment at your local USCIS office. Schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-375-5283. Take your original, incorrect I-94 record and evidence of the error to your appointment. USCIS will correct the I-94 at no cost. If you are unable to prove that the mistake was made by USCIS, you will be advised to file Form I-102 with a fee.

Replacing an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

What do i do about a lost i-94.

If you have a lost, stolen, mutilated, or destroyed Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, it is possible to replace it. Before you start, it’s helpful to know if you have an electronic or paper I-94. Knowing this will help determine how to replace the Arrival/Departure Record. Replacing an electronic version is a simple matter. However, replacing paper I-94 records can take several months and generally require a filing fee.

Replace an Electronic Travel Record

Modern I-94 Arrival/Departure Records are available electronically if the foreign national traveled by air or sea. An electronic I-94 can be obtained by going to the CBP I-94 website .

"Replacing" an electronic I-94 form is easy and free. Simply return to the CBP I-94 website and enter the necessary information to lookup your Arrival/Departure Record. You may print the electronic I-94 for when submitting with USCIS applications.

Replace a Paper Travel Record

Before CBP issued I-94 records electronically, they provided a paper form to foreign nationals arriving to the United States. In fact, CBP continues to issue paper Form I-94 at land border ports of entry and to certain classes of aliens, such as refugees, certain asylees and parolees, and whenever CBP determines that issuance of a paper form is appropriate. A paper-based version of the arrival/departure record is labeled "Form I-94A."

Replacing a paper I-94A form is a little more complicated. You will need to file a Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document . File the form with USCIS along with a $445 filing fee (at the time of writing this) and supporting documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do not confuse Form I-94 with a visa. They are closely related, but they are different.

The visa is an entry document. It must be valid when seeking admission into the United States. The I-94 (arrival/departure record) is a status document. It describes the foreign national's visa or parole status once inside the United States, and it also defines the length of stay permitted. Once a foreign national visitor is admitted to the United States, dates on the visa do not define how long the traveler is allowed to stay. Instead, the I-94 is the controlling document. Therefore, it's an extremely important document.

Your I-94 can expire, but make sure you are looking at the correct date. On an electronic document, you may see three dates:

• OMB Expiration Date: The first date in the top right-hand corner is the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) form expiration date. All government forms include OMB dates. The OMB validity date changes periodically and an expired OMB date does not invalidate the I-94 record or form. OMB dates are not related to a non-immigrant’s status in the U.S.
• Most Recent Date of Entry: Like it sounds, this is the most recent date that you entered the U.S.
• Admit Until Date: This is an extremely important date. The Admit Until Date is the date that your status expires. For students and other exchange visitors, this date is “D/S” or Duration of Status. For other visa classifications, this will be a hard end date. You must leave by this date or you will be in violation of your status.

There is no fee for the I-94 form. That’s true whether you’re arriving by land, air, or sea, and regardless of whether you get a paper or electronic record. The government provides the form at no cost.

However, you can optionally apply online for a provisional I-94 one week or less before your arrival date if you’re arriving at a land border port of entry. Applying for a provisional I-94 costs $6, but doing this can streamline the arrival process and minimize the time you spend waiting in line at the border.

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Travel History: Your Complete Guide To Form I-94

Why is an i-94 important.

The new I-94 form is important for people who need an accurate record of when they enter and leave the United States by air or sea. Immigration agencies may use your I-94 information to make a determination about your standing in the United States and your eligibility for certain types of visas. Here’s what you need to know about your I-94, travel history, and how to check your information. 

What Is Form I-94?

Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record is issued by United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to keep track of non-citizens’ arrivals and departures. The purpose of Form I-94 is to keep a record of documented entry and ensure timely departure. It helps immigration authorities maintain a record of potential immigrants’ and non-immigrants’ compliance with visa laws and the verification of immigration status.

Form I-94 acts as a supporting document for most immigrant and non-immigrant visa purposes. It shows that you have a history of abiding by the law with arrival and departure dates from United States ports of entry. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding Form I-94.

Who Needs Form I-94?

People who are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (i.e. green card holders) will be issued Form I-94 (or an equivalent) automatically upon entering the country. Form I-94 is an important tool that immigration institutions use to track data and ensure all travel in and out of the United States is documented. Automation makes the process quick, easy, and efficient for everyone involved.

Every non-immigrant who travels to the United States will automatically receive Form I-94. The Form I-94 provides information about entry as well as the date you must depart the United States by. The Form I-94 is often used when U.S. immigration officials make decisions on applications to change, extend, or adjust status and is used as supporting evidence to prove good standing and immigration compliance. 

You will need to present your I-94 information while you’re going through the process of obtaining a green card. If you eventually decide to obtain U.S. citizenship , you won’t need travel documents anymore. You’re free to come and go as you please in accordance with the travel and visa laws of your destination countries. You only need to present your valid U.S. driver’s license or passport as proof of citizenship and travel eligibility. 

How Do You Get an I-94 Travel Record?

There are two ways to start or update an I-94 travel record. The process will be automatic for most visitors. Many people don’t even realize that United States immigration services have created and maintained the form on their behalf. If you arrive at the United States border by land transportation, the process is slightly different.

Paper I-94 Documents

Paper I-94 cards are only issued to non-citizens who arrive in the United States by land. This is most common for foreign visitors from Mexico or Canada.

If you enter the United States through a land border port of entry at the Mexican or Canadian border, you’ll be issued an I-94 card that will be attached to your passport. Border officers will give you an admission stamp on your passport. When you leave the country, you’ll show the border officer your passport with the card attached. They will manually verify your departure with your paper form.

Electronic I-94 Documents

Most people enter the United States by air. Comparatively, few non-citizens cross into the United States at a physical point of entry at the Canadian or Mexican border. If you’re arriving by plane, I-94 issuance is automatic. The United States takes care of it for you, and you’ll get a physical stamp on your passport to serve as proof that you entered the country with documentation. 

If you ever need to access your electronic I-94 travel record, you can view it through U.S. CBP online . Their online system will allow you to view your travel history and print a physical copy of your most recent I-94 if you need to present them at a meeting with immigration officials or bring them with you to a port of entry. Immigration officials will also have access to your electronic travel record.

You can also view your travel history through U.S. CBP online . This can be helpful if you are completing a petition or application that requires information about prior trips to the U.S. CBP’s website provides information about entries and departures including the date and location. 

How Much Does Form I-94 Cost?

Most forms and petitions filed with U.S. immigration institutions require some kind of filing fee. Form I-94 does not. It’s created for free automatically when you travel to the United States. The form is part of immigration’s normal bookkeeping process, and it’s a document they use for their own reference. You generally shouldn’t have to pay for an I-94 card or electronic form.

The only exception to the free cost is when you apply for a provisional I-94 online. A provisional I-94 costs $6 USD. A provisional I-94 can reduce your wait time at a U.S. land border inspection site. Wait times at the border can be lengthy, and anything you can do to simplify the process may help you get through quicker. If you already have an I-94 when you arrive, you don’t need to wait for one to be created for you.

What Is an I-94 Number?

When you’re communicating with immigration agencies, they’ll ask you for a lot of numbers. Cases are assigned numbers, and immigrants are assigned alien registration numbers. If someone asks you for your I-94 number, it’s a little more complicated to find what you need.

Each I-94 number will be a combination of 11 numbers and letters. You don’t have a single I-94 number. You’re given a number for every arrival in the United States. If you need to prove I-94 numbers for official documents or requests, you’ll likely need to provide each individual number for your arrivals. 

What Happens If You Arrive and Depart in Different Ways?

Electronic I-94 records are for arrivals by air, and paper I-94 records are for arrivals by land. So, what happens if you arrive by plane and leave by land, or vice versa? If you arrived by air and are leaving by land, you need to find a different way to prove that you left the country before your “admit until date.” 

The easiest way to obtain alternative proof of your departure is to ask Canadian or Mexican border authorities for a passport stamp when you arrive. This passport stamp serves as proof that you left the country on time by demonstrating that you were in a different country before the expiration of your visa. 

What Happens If You Lose Your I-94 Information?

If your I-94 is electronic, you can’t lose it. Border officers will create a digital version of your paper I-94 card for their records and store a copy of the information on your behalf.

Immigration agencies will always have your official I-94 record, even if you don’t have access to it. You can view your information by going to the CBP website  and providing information about yourself and passport. You shouldn’t need to have a printed physical copy of your electronic information unless an employer or an agency has specifically asked you to provide one.

For older and paper I-94s, you can request a replacement by filing Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document with USCIS. 

What Happens If Your I-94 Travel History Contains Errors?

If you find an error on your I-94 travel history, such as an incorrect arrival or departure date, you need to contact CBP to have the error fixed. Documentation like passport stamps or proof that you boarded a flight can be used to verify or correct your arrival/departure record. CBP won’t charge you a fee to correct your I-94 record if they’re responsible for the error. 

What Happens If Your Arrival or Departure Isn’t Listed on Your Form?

USCIS, CBP, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) require every visitor to the United States to enter the country with proper documentation. If you don’t have listed arrival or departure dates for your visits to the United States, you may have trouble re-entering the United States or changing your immigration status. 

You can be removed from the United States and banned from re-entering for a period of several years. Future attempts to obtain a visa may be significantly more difficult. You’ll need the help of an experienced immigration attorney if you’d like to return to the United States after an undocumented arrival. 

Do You Need Help With Your Travel History or Immigration Forms?

If you intend to come to the United States as a visitor or an immigrant, it’s important to have a valid I-94 travel record. If there are issues with your travel record or if you arrived in the United States without passing through an official port of entry, you’ll encounter obstacles returning to the United States or changing your immigration status. 

The thorough immigration legal team at Cohen, Tucker + Ades can help. Contact us for a consultation on your case. We’ll be able to advise you of the best path forward for your situation.

Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, Information for Completing USCIS Forms | USCIS

CBP One™ Allows Travelers (Air) to request Advance Travel Authorization | USCIS

How do I get information about requirements for traveling abroad? | USCIS

Border Wait Times | US Customs and Border Protection (CBP.gov)

I-94 | US Customs and Border Protection (CBP.gov)

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ADIS/I-94 Arrivals Program

The National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) manages the ADIS/I-94 visitor arrivals program in cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)/U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The I-94 provides a count of visitor arrivals to the United States (with stays of 1-night or more and visiting under certain visa types) to calculate U.S. travel and tourism volume exports.

I-94s are processed to determine U.S. visitation from overseas (all modes) and Mexico air and sea travelers. To understand the magnitude of the filtering that is involved in processing I-94 raw data, in 2020 DHS/CBP provided NTTO with 547,047,790 ADIS/I-94 raw records of which only 8,684,990 records represented travel from overseas countries (all modes) and Mexico air and sea.    This program consists of three parts to report international arrivals to the United States: DHS/CBP ADIS/I-94 arrivals data, which non-U.S. citizens from overseas countries and Mexico (traveling by air and sea) must complete an I-94 record to enter the United States; Statistics Canada’s International Travel Survey; and Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía/INEGI (Banco de Mexico) monthly Mexican resident arrivals data. Mexican visitors to the United States within the 25-mile (40 kilometer) frontier zone are not included.

Program Details

• <strong>How to look up your Form I-94</strong>

How to look up your Form I-94

Many immigration applications require proof of a visitor’s last entry into the United States. A few different documents can show this, one of them being Form I-94. Form I-94, which used to be issued as a paper version, is now issued primarily electronically. Sometimes, navigating how to find the I-94 can be overwhelming, but we will guide you through the process. This article will detail what an I-94 is, where to request an I-94, and what to do if your I-94 is unavailable.”

What is an I-94? 

Form I-94 is the arrival/departure record of a nonimmigrant visitor’s most recent stay in the US. This document is issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) upon arrival and is connected to the individual’s passport used for that arrival. In addition to recording a visitor’s most recent arrival, this document also designates until what date that individual is legally permitted to stay in the US. This date is called the “date of authorized stay” on Form I-94.

Form I-94 used to be provided on paper during a visitor’s entry into the US. The visitor would present the Form to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and be issued a paper stub indicating their arrival and authorized departure record. However, to streamline this process, CBP has automated Form I-94 to include a stamp in a visitor’s travel document/passport. This stamp will show the date of arrival and the date of authorized stay (the date when a visitor must exit the US). Additionally, CBP keeps an online record of the I-94 but does not present the visitor with that record. Suppose an immigration application requests a copy of Form I-94. In that case, it is requesting a copy of the electronic record (or the paper record if the last entry was prior to the issuing of electronic records). However, for immigration purposes, applicants typically include copies of the passport stamp from their recent arrival and the electronic I-94 record.

Who receives an I-94, and what is it used for?

The DHS may issue an I-94 to the following individuals:

• Visitors who are admitted into the US
• Visitors who are changing their status while inside the US
• Or visitors who are extending their stay while inside the US

Visitors may sometimes need a copy of their I-94 to verify their immigration status, alien registration, or employment authorization. Visitors who need a copy of their I-94 can request it from the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website .

The CBP website

The CBP website allows visitors to apply for a new I-94, request the I-94 from their most recent entry, and view their travel history (showing all of their most recent entries into the US). Additionally, since the I-94 records a visitor’s authorized stay, visitors can use it to see to what date they are legally allowed to remain in the US. 

How to request an I-94 using the CBP Website

Please follow these steps when requesting an I-94 from the CBP website:

• Visit the CBP’s “ Get Most Recent I-94 ” page

• Accept the “Terms of Service” by reading through them and indicating whether you “Acknowledge and Agree.”

• Enter your traveler info: this page will request the first and last name of the visitor, their birth date, document number, and country of citizenship. Ensure that this information is entered EXACTLY as it appears on the visitor’s passport used for their most recent entry. 

• Then click “Next” to generate your most recent I-94. 

You can print this page if you need the I-94 to verify immigration status, alien registration, or employment authorization or to keep it for your records. 

What can I do if my I-94 record is not available?

In some cases, visitors may be unable to request their I-94 from the CBP website. The following steps may help:

• Try verifying that your personal information was entered EXACTLY as it appears on the passport used for your most recent entry. 
• If needing to show verification of the most recent entry, requesting the Travel History from the CBP website may help. 
• If you cannot get Form I-94 from the CBP website, you may file Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Record , with USCIS.

What can I do if my I-94 record shows errors?

At times, the I-94 record available on the CBP website may be from a former entry (but not from the most recent entry into the US) or may have some errors on it. Here are a few options for how to proceed in these situations:

• If the I-94 generated on the CBP website shows a previous, older entry, you may keep that I-94 record and also add an explanation explaining that the I-94 of the most recent entry was not available on the CBP website. In the explanation, provide the date of your most recent arrival in the US. In addition, you could request the CBP Travel History or add a scan of the passport stamp received as evidence of this most recent entry.
• If the I-94 record shows any information on it that appears to be incorrect (such as the wrong date of entry or incorrect class of admission, etc.,), it may be helpful to reach out to the CBP of the airport used for your most recent entry to see if they can correct the record from their end. 

Using SimpleCitizen

The I-94 record serves as a log of a nonimmigrant’s most recent entry into the US. It also specifies the immigrant’s date of authorized stay. If an immigrant needs a copy of their I-94 record, they may visit the CBP website to request their I-94. If someone cannot obtain their I-94, they may also file Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Record , with USCIS.

We’re happy you’re here! If you are applying for an adjustment of status, SimpleCitizen wants to help! We can help you demystify the process of applying for a green card with the help of immigration professionals for a fraction of the cost. Learn more here to get started!

Additional Websites:  

USCIS page for Form I-94

Customs and Border Protection I-94 Automation Fact Sheet

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• Faculty & Staff

I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

On This Page:

What is an I-94 record?

How to access your electronic i-94 record, what the i-94 looks like, there is a problem with my i-94. what do i do, what happens to my i-94 record when i leave the country, how to get more information on i-94 records.

Your travel in and out of the U.S. is recorded electronically by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) through the I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. This important record lists your entry date, port of entry, and visa status in which you were admitted to the U.S. The I-94 record may be required as proof of status for F-1 or J-1 benefits applications, employment verification, and other official purposes.

When you travel, your admission information will be recorded in your electronic I-94 record.

• Step 1: Wait 3 business days after entry to the U.S.
• Step 2: Go to the Customs and Border Protection I-94 website and Use the “Get Most Recent I-94” menu tab on the

I-94 tab on the CBP website

CBP I-94 webpage

Sample I-94

It’s important your I-94 show your correct Class of Admission (F1 or J1) and Admit Until Date (D/S)

Let ISS know what the problem is by submitting a report using the following form.

Report I-94 Issue to ISS

Departure by air: Your departure information will be collected by the U.S. government from airline manifests – nothing will be collected from you directly. Departure via border crossing: Customs and Border Protection recommends that you have with you other proof of your exit if you have an electronic I-94 record.

Feel free to contact ISS with questions about your I-94 record. More information regarding the electronic I-94 system is available on the CBP website .

List of US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Codes, Meaning

When you travel to the US and arrive at a US Port of Entry(PoE) location, you would go through the US port of entry procedures .  In the past, you may have filled out an I-94 form ,  or sometimes, you may go through Automated Control Process (APC) Kiosks and after that be interviewed by a CBP Officer. 

In the past, the CBP officer, after a short interaction or interview, may have put a stamp on your passport in the past. If you look closely, the stamp will have a three letter code on it on the top, that indicates the port of entry location or border checkpoint of the US that you used to enter America. 

Many may wonder what are these Port of Entry Abbreviations or CBP Codes. Below are a few samples of the US CBP Stamp and their codes highlighted. Also, you can check out the complete list of CBP codes below.

Sample CBP Stamp put at PoE on Passport with the CBP Location Code

The image below is of the CBP stamp that was stamped in New York by a CBP Officer. The NYC code on the stamp represents New York.

Below is a CBP stamp that was stamped in San Francisco. The CBP Code SFR representing San Franciso is on the stamp.

Below is the screenshot of the CBP Stamp from Philadelhipa. The CBP code is PHI.

Below is the screenshot of the CBP stamp from Houston, which is indicated by the CBP code of HOU.

CBP Pilot program – No Physical Ink Stamps in Passport

CBP started a pilot program in August 2022 called the ‘Simplified Arrival Program’, where they no longer put in any physical ink stamp in passports when someone arrives at the US port of entry. The plan is going forward, CBP wants to eliminate stamping passports with physical stamps.

You may not see the CBP codes stamped on the passport if such is the case. These would be captured as part of the US Travel History and users can check the I-94 Official Website

Many US PoE Locations now do not put any stamps in passports for F, M and J Students. Read CBP article

US Customs and Border Protection Port of Entry Codes

Below is a full list of CBP Codes that are related to all port of entry locations in the US. These codes are nothing but the US Port of Entry abbreviations as well.

For any updates on the locations and their codes, check out the latest info at  US CBP Codes on State.gov website

Common FAQs

No, the electronic I-94 will not have the Port of Entry(POE) code. You cannot find out the location of entry from the I-94

No, there is no implication to you or your stay in the US, if you do not have the PoE stamp or PoE code on your passport. The process now is completely electronic and it does not have any impact.

Other Articles

[Solved] No Record Found for Traveller CBP Website?

Willa Carson

March 15, 2023

Happy Wayfarer is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Your travel history is important, and keeping track of it is useful in many ways. Sometimes, there can be some trouble in recovering this information on account of errors from the website’s end. Through this post, let us explore the importance of travel history, understand about I-94 and figure out what to do if you are having trouble locating your travel history on the CBP Website. 

What is I-94?

The I-94 is a form that is issued by the U.S. government to keep a meticulous track of all the international visitors arriving and departing from the country. This includes those who plan to extend their stay, students seeking additional permits, among others who wish to alter their visa status. All non-immigrant entrants into the U.S. usually have this form attached to their passports upon arrival, but these days it is automated. 

There will be a date issued in this form which indicates the maximum limit of the stay duration permissible to the entrant depending on their cause of the visit. In other words, the visitor must exit the U.S. before the date prescribed on the I-94. These forms are presented to visitors who arrive at the airports as well as the seaports. 

They have presented these days digitally, and the entire system is automated. The Customs and Border Protection offers printed copies of the I-94 for those seeking to alter their status- i.e., seek immigration status or for employment authorization. This form is used to re-validate expired visas and generally accelerates the passenger procession. 

By visiting this link, you can retrieve your I-94 number: www.cbp.gov/I94

Why is travel history important?

The I-94 travel history is important because it is the ultimate proof that you have entered the country legally and that you will be exiting, keeping in mind the deadlines issued to you by the government. 

Every move in and out of the country can be tracked using your travel history, and it is a testimonial to the fact that you are abiding by the laws of the country. Your travel history matters the most if you are seeking immigration status into the U.S. 

It is important to note that maintaining a clean travel record is important to display that you have not extended your permitted stay illegally, which can affect immigration processes. Your travel history will sometimes be demanded by the DMV in case you are looking for employment opportunities.

Why does the CBP website say ‘No Record Found for Traveler’?

Sometimes, you might face an error when you are trying to access your I-94 records through the CBP Website. You will probably see the message that says, “No Record Found for Traveller’ or “No Records Found.” 

It is not very uncommon, and you do not need to panic if you see such a message. To understand why such a message is being displayed, you need to take a step-by-step approach. Firstly, recheck all the information that you have entered, including your full name, date of birth, passport number, country of issue, etc. 

If you have multiple passports following renewal, make sure that you have entered the details from the current one instead of the oldest. Sometimes, the reason could be a glitch on the part of the CBP website, in which case, you could just wait for a bit and try again. If you are still unable to access your travel records, refer to the solutions mentioned below. 

What to do when you see ‘No record found for traveler’ or ‘Not Found’ on the CBP website?

Oftentimes, you need to understand that the problem could be just with the website, and by no means is this the only official record of your travel history. 

The authorities use their database, and it has often been the case that even though this information is not visible on your website, they will be able to access it with no problem. 

You could have previously visited the website many times and have viewed the information, but now suddenly, it has become inaccessible. There is no need to panic about this. Sometimes people see their most recent I-94 while not being able to see the past. Probably, the case is that the information that is displayed is based on the old passport.

Since you are viewing the information on the website, you cannot overlook technical glitches. 

Firstly, ensure that all the information entered from your part is accurate and without any error. Avoid using symbols and hyphens. If entering both your middle name and your first name is not yielding results, try using either. 

Make sure that you have spelled everything right. If you are sure that you have input the latest information and there is no error on your part, the next step is to consider an error on the system. 

If the name on your passport does not work, try using the name as mentioned in the DS-160. Enter both your first and middle name in the first name section using a space to separate them. 

If your middle name is not mentioned in the passport or DS-160, do not enter it. Alternatively, you can also try using your last name as your first name and vice versa.

If you have multiple first or last names, enter them without a space in the respective fields. 

Check out your passport number and see if it is the same as mentioned in the visa. If they are different, use the number mentioned on the visa. Check if the passport number has the year of issuance in the beginning, and make sure that you do not enter that. 

Verify whether your classification designation is the same on your visa and your passport admission stamp. If you feel that they are different, try both.

As a next step, try logging in using a different browser and see if you can access the details. Also, try accessing the website using a different system altogether, and this might just do the trick. 

If you are accessing the website through a mobile browser, this might not entirely be reliable, and it is best to use a computer.

If you are not able to access your travel history despite trying all of these, reach out to the CBPs Traveler Communications Center through the official website, and you can hope to receive a response within 2-3 days. 

How do you get your complete travel history?

The most optimal way to get your complete travel history (international) would be to refer to the information present within your passport (old and new). You will find the date stamps along with the location on your passport. 

It is also possible for you to reconstruct your travel history using your travel records. Some important documents to aid you with this include credit card statements, online ticket booking history, etc. 

For those who are unable to access their records and do not have their passport on them for some reason, you can always contact the CBP and submit a Freedom of Information Act request, and you will be provided with the information free of cost and can provide you access to your travel history dated up-to five years back. 

How do you check your travel history?

Since everything is digitalized now, checking your travel history is not cause for worry. Using the I-94 records online, checking your international travel history is very easy. Usually, you will be able to find verifiable, accurate information in the records, and any discrepancy can be corrected by contacting the authorities. 

How do you get your old I-94?

If you are applying for visa or immigration status, your entire record of travel history becomes important and not just the latest information. For this reason, if you do not find the information on the website, you can request to obtain the records from the CBP. 

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will be able to provide you with the information that you need. But this depends on when you entered the country. If it was before 2013, you would have to submit Form I-102 and pay the fee of $445 for filing. 

If you have entered the U.S. and you need information after 2013, this is easier, and you just have to request the CBP, and they can give you information dating five years back at no cost. 

Does immigration know your travel history?

Yes, immigration is fully aware of your travel history, and the official records are noted down every time you enter and exit the country. Your travel history is also evident from your passport, which will be used to verify the information. Separate records such as the I-94 are also maintained by the government for accuracy.

What happens if I-94 is not updated?

If you are applying for immigration status, this can be a problem because all of the information needs to be up-to-date and accurate. The problem could be just a glitch on the website end, which might not show you the latest records. Contact the CBP directly by reaching out to them at [email protected] and send them a scanned copy of your visa and passport. Ensure that your most recent stamp is clearly seen.

How long does CBP keep records?

You can expect the CBP to hold onto records for up to five years, and this information can be collected from them for free. The PNR will be actively maintained for up to five years, following which it will be present in a dormant status for ten years, and you will require approval for access. 

How long can I stay in the U.S. after my I-94 expires? 

You are not permitted to stay beyond the expiration date mentioned on your I-94, and overextension without permission can lead to immediate deportation. Moreover, even if you are eligible to do so, you will not be able to procure a green card or change your status.

What does admit until date d/s mean?

The duration of status or d/s is the period of validity for your permission to stay in the U.S. Beyond this unless you have extended your stay officially or procured a different status, you are not permitted by law to stay in the country. This is commonly applied to students and exchange visitors and is valid for as long as they hold that particular status.

Does everyone get an I-94?

Unless you are a U.S. citizen, or someone holding an immigrant status or a Canadian citizen, or a returning resident to the country, you will be issued with I-94 when entering the U.S. 

Accessing your travel records is quite easy, and it is always good to keep track of these things to ensure smooth processes for your visa needs.

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• National Media Release

CBP Makes Online I-94 Application, Payment Available to Travelers Arriving at a Land Port of Entry

Travelers arriving at land border ports of entry can speed up their entry by using the online I-94 application

WASHINGTON — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced an enhancement to the I-94 website today, which allows travelers to apply and pay for their I-94 online prior to arriving at a land port of entry. Travelers can speed up their entry into the U.S. by providing their biographic and travel information, and paying the $6 fee for their I-94 application online up to seven days prior to their entry.

“We continue our commitment to transforming the international arrivals experience with this new I-94 offering that expedites entry into the U.S. at land ports of entry, while maintaining the highest standard of security,” said Commissioner R. Gil Kerlikowske. “This automated functionality increases the efficiency of the entry process and reduces administrative duties for CBP officers—ultimately resulting in shorter waits for travelers requiring an I-94.”

Travelers will now receive a provisional I-94 after submitting their application and payment online. The I-94 application will collect information that is otherwise collected in-person at the land port of entry, to include biographic information (name, date of birth, country of citizenship), passport details, visa details (if applicable), and petition/Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS) number (if applicable).

In order to finalize the I-94 issuance process, a traveler must present themselves at a land port of entry within seven days of their application and submit biometrics, if applicable, and be interviewed by a CBP officer. Travelers should be prepared to show evidence of their residence, employment, and/or travel plans, if requested by the CBP officer.

If the traveler does not complete their I-94 issuance process within seven days of their application, their provisional I-94 will expire and they will have to reapply and the pay the fee again. There are no refunds if the I-94 is not issued within the seven day period or if the traveler is denied entrance to the United States.

The secure website is easy to use and payment can be made with a credit card, debit card, direct debit, or through PayPal. The benefits of this process include increased efficiencies during processing, decreased paper usage, a streamlined CBP inspection process for the traveling public and reduced operating costs.

Form I-94 provides non-immigrant visitors evidence they have been lawfully admitted to the U.S., which is necessary to verify alien registration, immigration status, and employment authorization. In May 2013, CBP automated the I-94 in the air and sea environment. The automated system allows CBP officers to create an I-94 Arrival Record within primary and secondary inspection processing systems at the time of inspection with passenger manifest information—eliminating the need for paper forms and manual data entry. The automation of the I-94 Arrival/Departure Record has greatly improved the traveler experience while saving the U.S. government an estimated $34.5 million in its first two years.

For more information regarding the I-94 land automation or to access an electronic Form I-94, visit www.cbp.gov/I94 . To apply for your I-94 online, visit https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov .

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.