Gaining access to your travel history is now easier than ever. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provides an efficient online tool for nonimmigrant visitors to view their I-94 arrival/departure record and travel history. This guide will walk you through the process of accessing your travel records and understanding the information provided.
Accessing Your Travel History Online
The CBP’s dedicated I-94 webpage offers a convenient way for nonimmigrant travelers to retrieve their arrival and departure records for the past five years. This online access eliminates the need to file Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, significantly speeding up the process. You can electronically access the date and port of entry for all your arrivals and departures within the specified timeframe.
The CBP logo. Alt text: “U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Logo: Protecting America’s Borders”
To access your travel history, follow these simple steps:
- Visit the I-94 webpage.
- Enter the required information: name, date of birth, and passport details.
Retrieving Your I-94 Record and Travel History
After entering your information, you have two options:
- “Get Most Recent I-94”: This option displays your I-94 number, the most recent date of entry, class of admission, and admit-until date. Keep in mind that this information does not reflect any changes of status, extensions of stay, or adjustments of status granted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can then print the record for your reference.
Sample I-94 form. Alt text: “Example of an I-94 form: Arrival/Departure Record issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.”
- “Get Travel History”: This option retrieves your five-year travel history based on your I-94 records. You can also print this record for your files. This is the key to check my travel history with ease.
Canceling Pending FOIA Requests
If you have already filed a FOIA request for your travel history and have now obtained the information through the new website, you can cancel your pending request. Simply add your FOIA Request Number and click the “Request FOIA Cancellation” button.
What if My Record is Not Available Online?
CBP initiated the online version of Form I-94 in April 2013. If you lost a paper Form I-94 that was issued before the online system was implemented, and the record is not available online, you will need to file a Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Non-Immigrant Arrival-Departure Document, with USCIS.
Importance of Checking Your Travel History
Checking your travel history is useful for several reasons:
- Accuracy: Verifying the accuracy of your entry and exit records can help prevent potential issues with future visa applications or border crossings.
- Record Keeping: Maintaining a personal record of your travel history can be helpful for various purposes, such as applying for citizenship or other immigration benefits.
- Identifying Discrepancies: If you notice any discrepancies in your travel history, you can take steps to correct them promptly.
Conclusion
The CBP’s online I-94 webpage offers a valuable resource for nonimmigrant visitors to easily access their travel history. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can efficiently check my travel history, ensure the accuracy of your records, and maintain a comprehensive record of your entries and departures from the United States.
