IMMIGRATION STATUS

Here are various links to detailed information to help you know the many regulations regarding your legal status:

I-94 Arrival/ Departure Card

 

I-94 Arrival/ Departure Card

This small white card is issued to all non-immigrants at the time of arrival in the US, and must remain stapled in your passport at all times. The I-94 indicates the visa classification and the length of authorized stay in the US. This card is surrendered upon departure from the US and a new Form I-94 is issued upon re-entry.  

 

The length of authorized stay for F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors is noted on the I-94 as D/S and stands for "Duration of Status". It allows F-1 students to stay in the US for the length of time indicated on the initial I-20 form, plus 60 days. It allows J-1 exchange visitors to stay for the length of time indicated on the DS-2019 form, plus 30 days.

 

If your passport with your I-94 are lost or stolen, you must get them replaced immediately. There are a number of steps you need to take as follows:

 

Step 1: Police Report

 

Go to the local police station and report your document(s) lost or stolen.  If available, you will need to provide copies of the original documents.  You will be issued a police report detailing the incident.  Don't forget to make an extra copy of the report for your own records.

 

Step 2: Request Replacement of a Lost/Stolen Arrival-Departure Record (Form I-94)

 

Replacement of a lost or stolen Form I-94 falls under the responsibility of Department of Homeland Security (DHS).  To file for a replacement I-94, see  Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document  at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Website and see  Arrival-Departure Record  at the DHS, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Website.