US Explains What Determines How Long Foreign Visitors Can Remain In The Country

The United States government has reminded international visitors that the length of time they are permitted to remain in the country is determined by a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry, and not by the expiration date on their visa.

In a public advisory, US authorities urged travellers to check their electronic I-94 Arrival/Departure Record to confirm the exact date by which they are required to leave the country.

“Reminder! The length of time an international visitor is allowed to stay in United States is determined by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon your arrival, NOT your visa expiration date,” the advisory stated.

According to the authorities, visitors should verify the “admit until” date on their electronic I-94 record, as it indicates the period of stay authorised by immigration officials.

The clarification comes amid a common misconception among travellers that they are allowed to remain in the United States until the expiration date printed on their visa.

US immigration authorities explained that a visa only allows a foreign national to travel to a US port of entry and seek admission into the country. The final decision on whether a visitor is admitted, and the duration of stay granted, rests solely with the CBP officer at the point of entry.

The authorities warned that visitors who remain in the country beyond the date authorised on their I-94 record could be considered to have violated US immigration laws, a development that may adversely affect future visa applications and subsequent travel to the United States.

US officials therefore encouraged all international visitors to review their I-94 records immediately after arrival to ensure they understand the duration of their approved stay and avoid overstaying their authorised period.