For international visitors arriving in the United States, the process of documenting your entry has become significantly more streamlined. Gone are the days of paper-based Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Form I-94. Now, the system is largely electronic, making it easier than ever to access your I-94 form online. This digital transformation simplifies entry procedures and offers convenient access to your arrival and departure records when you need them.
Understanding the Electronic I-94 System
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has transitioned to an automated system that electronically records visitor arrival and departure information. This means that upon arrival by air or sea, or even at a land border crossing, foreign visitors are no longer required to fill out a paper Form I-94. Instead, CBP gathers this information directly from your electronic travel records. This modernization not only speeds up the entry process but also enhances security and reduces operational costs.
For travelers needing to verify their legal visitor status for various purposes – such as employment verification, enrollment in educational institutions, or interactions with government agencies – accessing your I-94 form online is a straightforward process.
How to Access Your I-94 Form Online
Retrieving your electronic I-94 record is easily done through the official CBP I-94 website. This online portal allows you to access your arrival/departure record information quickly and securely.
To get your I-94 form online, follow these simple steps:
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Visit the Official CBP I-94 Website: Navigate to the CBP I-94 website. This is your primary resource for accessing your electronic I-94.
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Access Your Record: On the homepage, you will find options to “Get Most Recent I-94.” Click on this option to proceed.
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Enter Your Information: You will be prompted to enter personal information to locate your I-94 record. This typically includes your name, date of birth, passport information, and country of citizenship. Ensure you enter this information accurately as it appears on your passport and travel documents.
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Retrieve and Print (if needed): Once your information is submitted and verified, you will be able to view your I-94 arrival/departure record online. From here, you have the option to print a copy of your I-94 form if a paper version is required.
Alt text: CBP I-94 Website Homepage: Access your arrival/departure record online easily and securely.
Utilizing the CBP GO Mobile App
In addition to the website, CBP provides the CBP GO mobile app, offering another convenient way to access your I-94 form. The mobile app mirrors the functionality of the website, allowing you to apply for and retrieve your I-94 information directly from your smartphone or tablet. This is particularly useful for travelers on the move who need quick access to their records.
Paper I-94 Forms: When and How
While the electronic I-94 is standard, there are still situations where a paper Form I-94 might be desired or necessary. If you prefer a paper form for your records, you have options:
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Print from the Website: As mentioned earlier, after accessing your electronic record online, you can print an official paper copy directly from the CBP I-94 website. This printed version serves as a valid paper Form I-94.
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Request at a Port of Entry: In specific circumstances, you can request a paper Form I-94 during the inspection process at a port of entry. However, it’s important to note that requests for paper forms at land borders are generally accommodated in a secondary inspection setting to maintain efficient processing.
Important Considerations for Land Border Entries
For those entering the U.S. via land borders, the electronic I-94 system is also in place. Travelers requiring an I-94 for land border entry are highly encouraged to utilize the CBP GO mobile app or the CBP I-94 website to apply and obtain their I-94 in advance. This proactive step can significantly expedite your entry process.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers entering via land are reminded that an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is mandatory prior to arrival at the U.S. land border. Applying for your I-94 online in advance through the CBP portal is also recommended for VWP travelers to ensure a smoother border crossing.
Departure Procedures and Electronic I-94
When departing the United States, the procedure differs slightly depending on how you initially received your I-94.
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Electronic I-94 (Air or Sea Arrival): If you received an electronic I-94 upon arrival by air or sea, your departure is generally recorded electronically through the carrier’s manifest information or by CBP.
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Electronic I-94 (Land Arrival, Land Departure): If you received an electronic I-94 upon land arrival and depart via land, accurate departure recording may depend on your travel pattern. If you re-enter the U.S. before your passport’s stamped expiration date, your departure is typically recorded. However, if you do not re-enter and are not a resident of Canada or Mexico, it’s advisable to carry evidence of your departure from the U.S. when entering Canada or Mexico. Acceptable evidence can include entry stamps in your passport, transportation tickets, or receipts. You can request an entry stamp from Canadian or Mexican immigration authorities upon entering those countries.
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Paper I-94: Travelers who were issued a paper Form I-94 should surrender it to the commercial carrier, Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), or CBP upon their departure from the U.S.
Benefits of the Online I-94 System
The shift to an electronic I-94 system and online accessibility offers numerous advantages:
- Convenience: Access your I-94 information anytime, anywhere with internet access.
- Efficiency: Streamlines the entry process at ports of entry, reducing wait times.
- Security: Enhances data accuracy and security through electronic record-keeping.
- Cost Savings: Reduces government expenses associated with paper form processing and handling.
Alphanumeric I-94 Numbers: What to Expect
It’s important to note that CBP has transitioned to alphanumeric I-94 numbers starting in May 2019. While previously I-94 numbers were 11 digits long and numeric only, the new format includes letters. The alphanumeric format consists of 9 digits, followed by a letter, and then a final digit, still totaling 11 characters. Rest assured, if you have an unexpired I-94 issued in the numeric-only format, it remains valid until its indicated expiration date.
Conclusion
The move to electronic I-94 forms and online access represents a significant improvement for international visitors to the United States. By utilizing the CBP I-94 website or the CBP GO mobile app, travelers can easily manage their arrival and departure records, verify their legal visitor status, and enjoy a more efficient and modern entry process. Embracing these digital tools simplifies travel and provides greater convenience for everyone.
