CBP Introduces Alphanumeric Format to I-94 Numbers

Starting May 2019, CBP is introducing some minor changes to the I-94 number format by making them alphanumeric.    I-94 numbers are 11 digits long and until now they only contained numbers; however, starting this month, CBP is starting to use alphanumeric I-94 numbers.     At this time the length will still be 11 characters but the first nine will be digits, followed by a letter in the 10th position, and another digit in the 11th position.

Why is CBP Changing to Alphanumeric I-94?

According to CBP,  they are starting to add letters simply because they are running out of numbers.

In order to minimize program impact resulting from the depletion of numeric-only I-94 numbers and to create a long-term solution for the creation of new numbers, CBP is switching to alphanumeric I-94s.

Are Existing I-94 Numbers Affected?

No, CBP has explicitly indicated that existing I-94 numbers issued at the port of entry or issued by USCIS as a result of an application to change or extend states remain valid.   Only new I-94 numbers issued for new U.S. entries will follow the new format.

Importance of Checking and Monitoring I-94 Information and Validity

Foreign visitors to the U.S. arriving via air or sea have their entry information automatically and electronically recorded by CBP.   Each traveler is then given an I-94 number and often a stamp and a notation are placed in their passport confirming the status and authorized period of stay.

We strongly recommend all travelers obtain their Form I-94 admission record to verify immigration status or employment authorization, the record number and other admission information.   While not very common, when a mistake is made it is much easier to get it corrected if discovered immediately after U.S. entry.

Also, we caution travelers that the validity of their passport may impact the validity of authorized period of stay in the U.S.   As a result, we recommend travelers have passport validity until at least the intended validity of stay.   Please see our alert on this topic.

Conclusion

The status validity date stamp and endorsement in the passport is extremely important and it should be checked upon every entry into the U.S. and, ideally, while at the CBP agent station.   If you feel that you have not been issued status validity (and Form I-94) with a correct date, ask the CBP agent or ask to speak with a supervisor.  Foreign nationals should not assume that because they are entering on a visa and pursuant to a I-797 petition approval which has a certain expiration date, that the authorized period of stay in the U.S. on their passport/Form I-94 would be the same.

Our office has been able to successfully help many foreign nationals, in a variety of visa types, in either having their I-94 cards corrected or extended.  Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can be of any help.   Also, please feel free to subscribe to our free weekly newsletter to obtain developments on this and related topics.