Can I travel with my I-94?

Traveling with Your I-94: What You Need to Know

The I-94, your record of admission to the United States, is a crucial document for anyone entering the country. However, a common misconception surrounds its use during your stay and departure. The short answer is: you shouldn’t be actively “traveling with” your I-94 in the sense of carrying it around like a passport. Instead, its importance lies in its accurate recording of your entry and, crucially, your exit from the US.

Many believe their I-94 serves as a travel permit or identification within the US. This is incorrect. While you were required to show it at one point during your entry process, it’s not an ongoing travel document. Your primary form of identification within the United States should be a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.

The true significance of the I-94 lies in its role in tracking your lawful stay. It records your entry date, your authorized stay duration, and – most importantly – your departure date. This information is crucial for maintaining a clean immigration record. Failure to have your departure properly recorded can lead to complications with future visa applications or even legal repercussions.

The process of ensuring your departure is correctly recorded depends on your mode of transportation:

• Air Travel: Airlines typically collect your I-94 upon departure. They’re responsible for submitting this information to Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Make sure you hand it over to the airline staff during check-in or at the gate.

• Land Border Crossings (Canada or Mexico): At land borders, the process is similar, but involves handing your I-94 to either the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) or CBP officials at your departure point.

• Electronic I-94s: These are increasingly common, especially for land border crossings. However, the electronic recording of departure isn’t always perfectly reliable. Even with an electronic I-94, it’s wise to confirm your departure is accurately recorded. You can do this by checking your I-94 online or contacting CBP directly after you’ve left the country.

The critical takeaway: While you don’t need to carry your I-94 around during your stay in the US, you must ensure your departure is accurately recorded. Failure to do so can have significant negative consequences. Be proactive and hand it over to the appropriate authorities at your point of departure. If you’re unsure, always ask an airline or border official about the correct procedure. Proactive compliance is your best strategy for avoiding future immigration complications.