The I-94, also known as the Arrival/Departure Record, is a critical document that confirms a non-immigrant's legal stay in the United States. The I-94 is issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to foreign visitors, students, workers, and other individuals who enter the country temporarily. The document serves as proof of lawful admission and is essential for various purposes, including employment, education, and travel.
Understanding the I-94 D/S Notation
When a non-immigrant enters the United States, they are typically issued an I-94 with a specific admission period, which is indicated by a date or the notation “D/S.” The “D/S” notation stands for “Duration of Status,” which means that the individual’s stay in the United States is authorized for as long as they maintain their non-immigrant status. In other words, the I-94 D/S notation confirms that the individual’s stay is valid for the duration of their authorized activity, such as studying, working, or visiting.
Types of I-94 Forms
There are two types of I-94 forms: the paper I-94 and the electronic I-94. The paper I-94 is typically issued to individuals who enter the United States by land or sea, while the electronic I-94 is issued to those who enter by air. The electronic I-94 is also known as the Automated I-94 and can be accessed online through the CBP website.
| Type of I-94 | Description |
|---|---|
| Paper I-94 | Issued to individuals who enter the United States by land or sea |
| Electronic I-94 (Automated I-94) | Issued to individuals who enter the United States by air and can be accessed online |
Maintaining a Valid I-94
To maintain a valid I-94, non-immigrants must comply with the terms of their admission and adhere to the conditions of their non-immigrant status. This includes, but is not limited to, maintaining a valid passport, attending school or working as authorized, and departing the United States before the expiration of their authorized stay. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in the termination of the individual’s non-immigrant status and potential removal from the United States.
Consequences of an Invalid I-94
An invalid I-94 can have severe consequences, including denial of employment, education, or travel benefits, as well as potential removal from the United States. It is crucial to ensure that your I-94 is accurate and up-to-date to avoid these consequences.
Key Takeaways:
- The I-94 is a critical document that confirms a non-immigrant’s legal stay in the United States.
- The I-94 D/S notation indicates that the individual’s stay is authorized for the duration of their non-immigrant status.
- Non-immigrants must maintain a valid I-94 and comply with the terms of their admission to avoid consequences.
What is the purpose of the I-94?
+
The I-94, also known as the Arrival/Departure Record, is a document that confirms a non-immigrant’s legal stay in the United States. It serves as proof of lawful admission and is essential for various purposes, including employment, education, and travel.
What does the “D/S” notation on the I-94 mean?
+
The “D/S” notation stands for “Duration of Status,” which means that the individual’s stay in the United States is authorized for as long as they maintain their non-immigrant status.
How can I access my electronic I-94?
+
You can access your electronic I-94 online through the CBP website. You will need to provide your passport information and other identifying details to retrieve your I-94.
