--------- How to Get, Obtain, and Retrieve Your I-94 Record (2025 Guide)

If you’ve traveled to the United States by air, land, or sea, you’ve likely heard of the I-94 record. This small but crucial document tracks your arrival and departure, proving your legal entry and authorized stay. Whether you’re a visitor, student, or worker, you may need to get, obtain, or retrieve your I-94 for visa applications, work authorization, or status updates. In this 2025 guide, you’ll learn exactly how to access your I-94, find your I-94 number, and check its details—step by step.

What Is the I-94 Record?

The I-94, officially known as the Arrival/Departure Record, is issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to most non-citizens entering the U.S. It confirms when you entered, how long you can stay, and is often required for immigration processes, driver’s license applications, or employment verification.

• Who gets an I-94? Most visitors, students, and temporary workers.
• How is it issued? Electronically for air/sea arrivals; paper form for some land entries.
• Why is it important? It’s your official proof of lawful entry and status in the U.S.

How to Get Your I-94 Record for the First Time

You’ll receive an I-94 each time you legally enter the U.S. as a non-citizen.

• Air/Sea Arrivals: CBP creates your I-94 electronically. You won’t get a paper form, but you can access it online.
• Land Border Crossings: You may receive a paper I-94, especially if you’re not eligible for electronic processing.

What to have ready:

• Passport
• Visa (if required)
• Travel documents

Tip: Always double-check your entry stamp and details with the CBP officer before leaving the inspection area.

How to Obtain or Retrieve Your I-94 Online

Most travelers can access their I-94 record online in minutes. Here’s how:

Step-by-Step: Accessing Your I-94 Online

1. Go to the official CBP I-94 website on this link.
2. Click “Get Most Recent I-94.”
3. Enter your details:
   • Name (exactly as on your passport)
   • Date of birth
   • Passport number
   • Country of issuance
4. Review your I-94 information and print or save a copy for your records.

Troubleshooting:

• If you can’t find your record, check for typos or try alternate spellings.
• If still unsuccessful, contact a CBP Deferred Inspection Site or port of entry for assistance.

Official Source:

• CBP I-94 FAQ

How to Get a Replacement or Correct an I-94

If your I-94 is lost, stolen, or has errors:

For Lost or Stolen I-94:

• Paper Form: File Form I-102 (Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document) with USCIS.
  Form I-102 Instructions
• Electronic Record: Simply reprint from the CBP website.

To Correct Errors:

• Visit a CBP Deferred Inspection Site with your documents.
• Explain the error and provide proof (passport, visa, entry stamp).

Note: Corrections are free, but replacements for lost paper forms may have a fee.

How to Find and Check Your I-94 Number

Your I-94 number is a unique 11-digit identifier assigned to each arrival.

Where to Find Your I-94 Number

• Online I-94: The number appears at the top of your electronic record.
• Paper I-94: The number is printed on the top left of the card.

How to Check Your I-94 Number

• Log in to the CBP I-94 website as above.
• Your number will be displayed with your latest entry record.
• Double-check that your travel details and expiration date match your passport and visa.

Why Your I-94 Number Matters

• Needed for immigration forms (like extensions or adjustments of status)
• Required for Social Security, driver’s license, and employment authorization
• Used to verify your legal status and authorized period of stay

If you can’t find your number:

• Try variations of your name or passport number on the CBP site.
• If still missing, contact CBP or speak to an immigration professional.

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting, Obtaining, and Retrieving an I-94

How long does it take to get an I-94?

Usually, your I-94 is available online immediately after entry. Paper forms are issued on the spot at land borders.

Can I get my I-94 at the airport?

Yes. For air arrivals, your I-94 is created electronically and is accessible online after you clear inspection.

What if my information doesn’t match on the I-94?

Visit a CBP Deferred Inspection Site or port of entry with your documents to request a correction.

How do I update my I-94 after passport renewal?

You must exit and re-enter the U.S. to receive a new I-94 with your updated passport. Some travelers may be able to update via Deferred Inspection.

Is my I-94 number the same as my admission number?

Yes, the terms are used interchangeably.

Can I check my I-94 number for previous entries?

Yes. The CBP website allows you to view your travel history and past I-94 records.

What if I can’t access my I-94 online?

Check for typos, try alternate spellings, or contact CBP Deferred Inspection.

How do I print my I-94?

After accessing your record online, use the print function on the CBP website.

Who can help if I have problems with my I-94?

CBP Deferred Inspection Sites, ports of entry, or an immigration attorney can assist.

Conclusion

Your I-94 record is essential for proving your legal entry and authorized stay in the U.S. In 2025, accessing, obtaining, or retrieving your I-94 is easier than ever—most travelers can do it online in just a few minutes. Always keep a copy of your record and I-94 number handy for immigration, work, or travel needs. If you run into issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to official sources or seek professional help.

Need more help with I-94 or other visa matters? GovAssist is here to guide you every step of the way.

How GovAssist Can Help with Your I-94 and Travel Documents

Getting your I-94 record shouldn’t be complicated, but if you run into issues, GovAssist is here to make the process smooth. Our team specializes in visa application support, immigration form navigation (including I-94 and DS-160), and document troubleshooting. With custom technology and real-time updates, we help you access, replace, or correct your I-94 quickly and accurately.

Why trust GovAssist?

• Fast, expert help from travel and immigration specialists
• 24/7 support by phone, email, or social media
• Guidance from a team with former U.S. Consular officers
• Personalized assistance for I-94, visas, and all travel documents

Don’t let paperwork slow you down.

Contact GovAssist today and let us handle the details, so you can focus on your journey, not the forms.