In addition to the visa, the i-94 form is the most important document for foreign visitors to the United States, since it indicates their immigration status and the dates of their period of stay.
The i-94 entry-exit registration form is a document issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to foreign visitors entering the United States. The i-94 indicates the time that the foreign visitor can stay in the United States from continuously, which should not be confused with the expiration date of the US visa. Generally, the i-94 indicates a date of stay in the country for six months.
When a foreigner stays longer than indicated on their i-94 document, they are in danger of being prohibited from entering the United States for a period of three to ten years, depending on the length of stay. For example, if a visitor has been in the country illegally for more than a year, they can be banned from entering the country for ten years.
Therefore, it is necessary for visitors to leave the United States before the expiration date indicated on the i-94, regardless of the expiration date of the visa. However, if the visa expires before the i-94 permit expires, this also does not mean that you can legally remain in the United States for the period of time indicated in the document.
The only acceptable conditions for an overstay in the United States are the following: You are a minor; had a pending asylum application; was a beneficiary of the Family Unity Program; had a pending application for a Green Card adjustment or adjustment of status; entered as a nonimmigrant and was a victim of abuse; excess stay for being a victim of trafficking; or received Temporary Protected Status.
