Do I need to turn in my I-94 when leaving the US?

When entering the United States with a TN visa, you receive a record of your entry – the well-known I-94 – which serves to track your stay in the country. It is important to understand how this document works, as it proves your length of stay and may be necessary for future applications or verifications.

If your entry was conducted electronically, as is common nowadays, your I-94 is generated and stored electronically, which means that upon leaving the US, the process of physically returning or submitting this document does not apply. Conversely, if you received a printed copy of the I-94, the traditional procedure was to turn in this form at the time of departure, either onboard the airplane or at a checkpoint, according to the guidelines of the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

To avoid any issues with immigration laws, it is essential to follow the instructions contained in your documentation and also check updated guidance on the official CBP website. If you still have doubts about the correct procedure or if there have been any recent changes in the exit process, seeking advice from government sources and websites dedicated to immigration information can be very helpful.

Remembering to comply with all immigration requirements and rules is fundamental to maintain a clean and transparent history in your records. Stay alert to possible misleading information from third parties, especially those promising miracle solutions or eased outcomes. Careful monitoring of the steps and consulting official sources are the best ways to ensure that your travel experience and eventual return do not encounter problems in the future.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.