How to Check I-94: A Comprehensive Guide
In the United States, the I-94 form is a crucial document for international travelers. It serves as a record of your entry and exit from the country, and it contains important information such as your visa status, passport number, and the dates of your stay. Checking your I-94 is essential to ensure that you are in compliance with immigration regulations and to avoid any legal issues. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to check your I-94 online, via mail, and through other methods.
Understanding the I-94 Form
Before diving into the process of checking your I-94, it’s important to understand what the form entails. The I-94 is divided into two sections: the Arrival/Departure Record and the Departure Record. The Arrival/Departure Record is issued to you upon entry into the United States and contains information about your visa status, passport number, and the dates of your stay. The Departure Record is a stub that is torn off and returned to the immigration officer at the port of entry.
Checking Your I-94 Online
The most convenient way to check your I-94 is through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website. To access your I-94 online, follow these steps:
1. Visit the CBP I-94 Arrival/Departure Record website at home
2. Enter your passport number, date of birth, and country of citizenship.
3. Click on the “Get My I-94” button.
4. Your I-94 information will be displayed on the screen.
Checking Your I-94 via Mail
If you prefer to check your I-94 through the mail, you can request a copy of the form by following these steps:
1. Download and complete the Form I-94W, which is used to request a copy of your I-94.
2. Mail the completed Form I-94W, along with a check or money order for $20 (made payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”) to:
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
P.O. Box 21252
Phoenix, AZ 85036
3. Allow 5-10 business days for your request to be processed.
Other Methods to Check Your I-94
In addition to the online and mail-in methods, there are a few other ways to check your I-94:
1. Contact your employer or educational institution, as they may have a copy of your I-94 on file.
2. Visit your local U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office and request a copy of your I-94.
3. Check your passport, as the Departure Record stub may still be attached.
Conclusion
Checking your I-94 is an important task for international travelers in the United States. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily access your I-94 information online, via mail, or through other methods. Keeping your I-94 up to date will help you stay compliant with immigration regulations and avoid any legal issues during your stay in the United States.
