The I-94 is an important document for anyone living in the United States in 2023. The I-94, also known as the Arrival/Departure Record, is a form issued by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to foreign visitors entering the U.S. It is also known as an I-94 card or I-94 number. The I-94 is an important document for anyone who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, as it is a record of their lawful entry into the U.S. A valid I-94 document is required for any non-U.S. citizen to stay legally in the U.S.
The I-94 card is issued at the port of entry when you enter the U.S. It is usually issued on a white paper form, but it can also be issued electronically. The I-94 card contains important information such as your name, date of birth, passport number, date of entry, and your visa status. You must always carry your I-94 card with you when you are in the U.S. and you must present it when asked to do so by a CBP officer.
The I-94 card is also important for non-U.S. citizens who are working in the U.S. If you are a non-U.S. citizen working in the U.S., your employer will need your I-94 card in order to process your payroll and tax forms. The I-94 card also serves as proof of your legal status in the U.S., so it is important to keep it up to date and valid.
Do I Need to Update My I-94 Card?
Yes, you will need to update your I-94 card if your visa status or entry date changes. You are also required to update your I-94 card if you change your name or address. You can update your I-94 card by visiting the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website or by visiting a U.S. port of entry. It is important to keep your I-94 card up to date, as it reflects your current legal status in the U.S.
What Happens if I Lose My I-94 Card?
If you lose your I-94 card, you must contact the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to report it lost or stolen. You can also apply for a replacement I-94 card. To do so, you will need to submit the I-102 form, which is available on the CBP website. You will also need to provide proof of your identity, such as a passport or other government-issued identification.
What Happens if My I-94 Card Expires?
If your I-94 card expires, you must leave the U.S. immediately. You cannot stay in the U.S. beyond the expiration date of your I-94 card. If you need to stay in the U.S. longer, you must apply for an extension of your I-94 card. To do so, you must submit the I-539 form, which is available on the CBP website. You must also provide proof of your identity, such as a passport or other government-issued identification.
What Are the Penalties for Not Having a Valid I-94 Card?
If you are found to be in the U.S. without a valid I-94 card, you could face fines, deportation, or other penalties. It is important to keep your I-94 card up to date and valid, as it is proof of your legal status in the U.S. It is also important to update your I-94 card if your visa status or entry date changes.
Conclusion
The I-94 is an important document for anyone living in the United States in 2023. It is a record of your legal entry into the U.S., and it is used to verify your identity, your visa status, and your eligibility to work in the U.S. It is important to keep your I-94 card up to date and valid, as it is proof of your legal status in the U.S.
