When you enter the United States, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issues an I-94 record. This little document may not seem like much, but it’s critical — it shows how long you’re legally allowed to stay in the U.S.

But here’s the thing: mistakes happen.

Yes, even the government makes errors. Sometimes airport officers forget to update your I-94 correctly, even if you entered the country legally. This could mean the wrong admission date, incorrect visa class, or missing travel details.

Why It Matters

Your I-94 controls your lawful stay. If it’s wrong, you could accidentally fall out of status — and that can create serious immigration problems down the line.

What To Do if Your I-94 Is Wrong

👉 Contact CBP right away. Each airport has a Deferred Inspection Site or CBP office linked to international arrivals. That’s where you go to request a correction.

👉 Act fast. The sooner you fix the mistake, the safer your status will be. Waiting too long could make things harder to resolve.

👉 Bring proof. Carry your passport, visa, approval notices, boarding pass, and any other evidence that shows your correct information.

Bottom Line

At the end of the day, it’s your responsibility to make sure your I-94 is accurate — not the government’s. Catching and fixing errors early helps protect your immigration status and keeps your journey on track.

⚖️ Disclaimer: This post is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For individual guidance, consult a licensed U.S. immigration attorney.