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I94

I-94 Arrival/Departure Record: A Guide for New Students in Boston

What is Form I-94? Form I-94 is the official U.S. Arrival/Departure Record issued to international visitors (such as F-1, M-1, or J-1 visa holders) when they enter the U.S. This document keeps track of when you enter and exit the country and is essential for verifying your legal status during your stay. It shows your admission date, visa status, and duration of stay in the U.S.

For most international students, the I-94 is issued electronically when you arrive at a U.S. port of entry (by air or sea). However, those entering via land might still receive a paper version.

Why is the I-94 Important?

  • Proof of Legal Entry: The I-94 shows that you entered the U.S. legally and specifies the date and terms of your admission.

  • Required for Employment: You will need it when applying for a Social Security Number (SSN) or work authorization.

  • Visa Status Verification: It verifies your current immigration status and ensures that you comply with your visa conditions.

  • Travel and Re-entry: You will need the I-94 to leave and re-enter the U.S. during trips abroad.

  • Application for Benefits: It’s also necessary for getting a driver’s license, state ID, or even opening a bank account.

Guide to Accessing and Managing Your I-94

Step 1: Retrieve Your I-94 Online

Once you arrive in the U.S., your I-94 is automatically generated electronically. You can access and download your I-94 record by following these steps:

  1. Visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website: Go to I-94 Official Website.

  2. Click "Get Most Recent I-94": Enter the required information such as your passport number, date of birth, passport country of issuance, and arrival date.

  3. Download or Print Your I-94: Once retrieved, you can download or print it for your records. Keep both physical and digital copies for future use.

Step 2: Understand the Details on Your I-94

  • Admission Date: The date you arrived in the U.S.

  • Class of Admission: Your visa category (e.g., F-1, M-1, J-1).

  • Admit Until Date: This shows how long you are legally allowed to stay in the U.S. For students, this often reads "D/S" (Duration of Status), meaning you can stay as long as you maintain your student status.

Step 3: Use Your I-94 for Various Applications

You will need your I-94 for several important processes while in the U.S., including:

  1. Applying for a Social Security Number (SSN): If you plan to work on or off-campus, you will need your I-94 as proof of your legal status when applying for an SSN.

  2. Getting a Driver’s License or State ID: The I-94 is required when applying for a Massachusetts Driver’s License or State ID at the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV).

  3. Traveling Abroad: If you leave the U.S. during your studies, you will need your I-94 to re-enter the country. Make sure your visa and I-94 information are up to date.

Step 4: Correct Any Errors on Your I-94

If you notice any errors on your I-94 (such as incorrect visa class or admission date), you should take action immediately:

  1. Contact a CBP Deferred Inspection Site: The nearest CBP office or airport deferred inspection site can correct errors. In Boston, the CBP Deferred Inspection office is at Logan International Airport.

  2. Submit Evidence: Bring supporting documents such as your passport, visa, and I-20 or DS-2019 when requesting corrections.

Tips for New Students

  1. Check Your I-94 After Every Re-entry: Each time you leave and re-enter the U.S., your I-94 is updated. Make sure to check the new record after every trip to ensure all information is accurate.

  2. Save a Copy: Always keep a physical and digital copy of your I-94 for future reference. You may need it for several processes, such as visa renewals, applications for benefits, or employment verification.

  3. Expiration and Staying in Status: If your I-94 shows "D/S" (Duration of Status), it means you can stay in the U.S. as long as you are enrolled as a student and comply with your visa conditions. However, always consult with your Designated School Official (DSO) if you have concerns about your visa status or the expiration of your I-94.

  4. Travel Outside the U.S.: If you plan to travel abroad during school breaks, check that your I-94, visa, and other documents (I-20 or DS-2019) are valid. You may need a new I-94 upon re-entry, and it must match your current status.

  5. Reapplying for I-94: In the rare case that you lose access to your I-94 or cannot retrieve it online, contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or seek assistance from your school’s international student office.

Form I-94 is an essential document for international students, governing their stay in the U.S. By keeping it updated and readily available, you can ensure smooth processes for travel, work, and study during your time in Boston. Safe travels, and enjoy your time studying in the U.S.