Form I-94, also known as the Arrival/Departure Record, is an official document issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to track the entry and exit of non-U.S. citizens visiting the United States. It provides crucial details about a visitor’s immigration status, the purpose of their visit, and the length of their authorized stay in the country.
Errors on your I-94 record can create complications for your travel and immigration status. With the introduction of Simplified Arrival and the phasing out of passport stamps, mistakes made by CBP officers have become more common. Since admission stamps are no longer placed in passports, it’s essential to monitor your I-94 record online to ensure your entry category and allowed stay time are accurate.
As many are aware, Simplified Arrival is an enhanced international arrival process that uses facial biometrics to automate the manual document checks that are already required for admission into the United States. It provides travelers a touchless process that further secures and streamlines international arrivals while fulfilling a longstanding Congressional mandate to biometrically record the entry and exit of non-U.S. citizens. This process saves time during the inspection process. More information about Simplified Arrival can be gathered at: https://www.help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-1708?language=en_US
Steps to Correct an I-94 Error
Here’s a step-by-step guide to fixing any issues on your I-94 document:
- Review Your I-94
Visit the official CBP I-94 website at i94.cbp.dhs.gov to check your record for errors. Look for inaccuracies in your name, admission date, travel history, or visa classification.
- Identify the Error
Determine the specific issue that needs correction. Common errors include:
- Misspelled name
- Incorrect admission date
- Wrong visa classification
- Gather Necessary Documents
Collect supporting documents to prove the correct information. These might include:
- Your passport
- Visa and approval notices
- Travel tickets and itineraries
- Any evidence showing the correct details
- Contact CBP Deferred Inspection Sites or Ports of Entry
Certain errors on your I-94 record can be corrected at CBP Deferred Inspection Sites or ports of entry. Locate the nearest office and contact them for assistance. A list of locations is available at cbp.gov. Bring all necessary documentation and be prepared to explain the error in detail.
- Use the Traveler Communication Center (TCC)
For some corrections, you can use CBP’s “Ask a Question” webform via the Traveler Communication Center. Follow these steps:
- Select “I-94/Traveler Compliance” as the topic.
- Choose “Issue with my I-94/Traveler History” as the issue.
- Upload your supporting documents directly on the form: help.cbp.gov.
Important Tips for I-94 Corrections
- Double-check all documents for accuracy and consistency before submitting.
- Keep copies of all correspondence and submitted documents.
- Consult an immigration attorney before visiting a Deferred Inspection office.
Need Professional Help?
If you have questions or need assistance with correcting your I-94 record, contact one of HSD Immigration Lawyer offices in Clark, NJ; Chicago, IL; Naperville, IL or Raleigh, NC.