Quick Summary: After each trip to the United States, review your electronic I-94 record. This record shows important details about your entry, including your admission category and the time you are allowed to stay. If you find an error, gather your documents, identify the problem, and speak with an immigration attorney before taking further steps.

An I-94 error can create confusion about your immigration status. Even a small mistake—such as an incorrect name, date, or visa classification—may need attention. The good news is that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has ways to address some record errors. The key is to notice the issue early, keep clear records, and make sure the information you provide is accurate.

Check Your I-94 After Every Trip

Your I-94 is an electronic arrival-and-departure record issued by CBP. Because travelers may not receive a passport admission stamp, it is important to check the online record after entering the United States.

When you review the record, look carefully at the information shown. Confirm that your name is correct. Check the date of admission, your travel history, your entry category, and the date through which you are allowed to remain in the United States. Do not assume the information is correct just because you were admitted at the airport or border.

You can review your record through the CBP I-94 website. Save a copy for your records after you review it.

Understand the Type of Error

Before asking for a correction, identify exactly what appears to be wrong. A clear explanation can help you prepare the right documents and contact the appropriate CBP resource.

Examples of issues identified in the guidance include:

• A name that is misspelled or does not match your passport;
• An incorrect date of admission;
• A visa classification that does not match the correct information; or
• A problem in the travel history shown in the record.

Write down what you see in the I-94 record and what you believe the correct information should be. Keep your explanation simple and based on your documents. If you are unsure whether something is an error, Ventresca & Ventresca LLP can help you review the issue in the context of your immigration matter.

Collect Documents That Support the Correction

CBP may need documents that show why the I-94 information should be corrected. Gather the relevant records before you contact an office or submit a request.

The guidance lists several documents that may be useful, including your passport, visa, approval notices, travel tickets, travel itineraries, and other evidence showing the correct information. The documents you need will depend on the specific issue.

Before submitting anything, compare the documents carefully. Names, dates, and other details should be accurate and consistent. Keep copies of every document you submit, as well as any messages or other correspondence you receive.

Contact the Appropriate CBP Office

CBP Deferred Inspection Sites and some ports of entry can correct certain CBP errors. A Deferred Inspection Site is a CBP office that may handle these types of record-correction issues.

You can find CBP contact information and Deferred Inspection Site locations on the CBP Deferred Inspection Sites webpage. The guidance recommends speaking with an immigration attorney before visiting a Deferred Inspections office. This can help you understand the issue and prepare the documents needed to explain it.

Ventresca & Ventresca LLP is a Wexford, PA law firm that understands how important accurate immigration records can be for individuals, families, and employers. If an I-94 issue is connected to a pending application, a work authorization question, or future travel, it may be especially important to address it promptly and carefully.

Use CBP’s Traveler Communication Center When Available

Some I-94 corrections may be handled through CBP’s Traveler Communication Center (TCC). CBP provides an online “Ask a Question” form where travelers can submit certain questions and upload documents.

According to the guidance, select I-94/Traveler Compliance as the topic and Issue with my I-94/Traveler History as the issue. The form is available through the CBP Traveler Communication Center.

When using the online form, explain the problem clearly and provide the documents that support the correct information. Keep a copy of what you submit and any response you receive. Do not submit information that you have not reviewed for accuracy.

Take Care Before You Act

An I-94 record contains important information about a person’s entry and authorized stay. For that reason, do not ignore a possible error. At the same time, do not guess about the right correction or rely on incomplete information.

Review your record after travel, gather documents, and seek legal guidance if you find a problem. Responsive attorneys can help you understand what the record says, what documents may be relevant, and which next step may fit your situation. Ventresca & Ventresca LLP provides immigration law guidance for clients in Wexford and beyond, with attention to the time-sensitive details that can affect immigration matters.

FAQ

When should I check my I-94?

Check your I-94 after every trip to the United States. Review the online record for your name, admission date, entry category, allowed stay time, and travel history.

What kinds of I-94 mistakes should I look for?

Common examples include a misspelled name, an incorrect admission date, an incorrect visa classification, or an issue with the travel history displayed in the record.

What documents should I collect?

Gather relevant documents such as your passport, visa, approval notices, travel tickets, itineraries, and other proof that supports the correct information.

Can I ask CBP for help online?

CBP’s Traveler Communication Center may handle some corrections through its online “Ask a Question” form. The guidance identifies the I-94/Traveler Compliance topic and the Issue with my I-94/Traveler History option for these requests.

Should I speak with an attorney before contacting a Deferred Inspection Site?

The guidance recommends contacting an immigration attorney before visiting a CBP Deferred Inspections office. An attorney can help you understand the issue and prepare your supporting documents.

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. If an I-94 error may affect a pending or planned immigration matter, contact Ventresca & Ventresca LLP to discuss your situation and next steps.