If you’re planning a trip to the United States, here’s an important reminder from the US Embassy in India: do not overstay your authorized period of stay. Overstaying in the U.S. can have serious consequences, including visa cancellation, deportation, and even being barred from applying for future visas.
The embassy recently emphasized that a traveler’s period of authorized stay is not determined by the visa expiration date, but by the “Admit Until Date” stated on Form I-94.
What is Form I-94 and Why Does It Matter?
Form I-94 is the official arrival and departure record issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to almost all foreign visitors entering the U.S.
- It defines how long a traveler is allowed to stay in the U.S.
- The record is required for most travelers except:
- U.S. citizens
- Green Card holders (permanent residents)
- Individuals holding immigrant visas (e.g., H-1B workers)
If you’re traveling through a land border or ferry, you can apply for a provisional I-94 online in advance, which can save significant time at the port of entry.
The Crucial “Admit Until Date”
Your Admit Until Date is perhaps the most important detail to monitor during your stay in the United States.
- This date is printed or recorded on your Form I-94.
- It marks the last day you are legally allowed to remain in the U.S.
- For students and exchange visitors → The expiration may be written as “D/S” (Duration of Status) instead of a calendar date.
- For other visa categories → A specific hard end-date will be listed.
Key Point: Your visa expiration date is not the same as your authorized stay date. Even if your visa is valid for multiple years, your stay is limited by the I-94 Admit Until Date.
What Happens If You Overstay?
Staying in the U.S. beyond your authorized stay period is considered an “overstay”, and it can trigger:
- Visa revocation (current visa automatically voided)
- Possible deportation proceedings
- Ineligibility for future U.S. visas
In short, even a small overstay can create long-term consequences for your travel history.
How to Stay Compliant with U.S. Immigration Rules
To avoid falling out of status, travelers should:
✅ Leave the U.S. before 11:59 PM ET on the “Admit Until Date” listed on their I-94.
✅ If extending your stay, file for an extension, change of status, or adjustment of status with USCIS before your Admit Until Date.
✅ Regularly check your I-94 record for your most up-to-date authorization period.
How to Check Your Admit Until Date
You can easily access your most recent Form I-94 using:
- The official CBP (Customs and Border Protection) website – via the “Get Most Recent I-94” option.
- The CBP One Mobile App, where your current record and Admit Until Date can be retrieved.
Pro Tip: Always keep a digital or printed copy of your I-94 handy—it’s proof of your legal stay in the U.S.
Final Thoughts
The US Embassy in India is reminding travelers that your visa stamp only grants you permission to enter the U.S., but the Form I-94 and its Admit Until Date determine how long you can stay.
To protect your travel record and ensure smooth future visits:
- Always check your I-94 after arrival
- Respect the Admit Until Date
- File necessary extensions in advance if you need more time
Overstaying, even unintentionally, can have life-changing consequences for your ability to re-enter the United States in the future.
