Does returning my I-94 at the Canadian border make any difference at all?
When returning from the US to Canada by land, you have the option to return your I-94 to the CBSA official. However this seems to be a bit useless as nowadays all exits are automatically (and nearly instantly) recorded and passed on to DHS, whether or not you return the I-94 paper. Likewise returning your I-94 doesn't reset the I-94 status, so you would still be admitted under your previous I-94 on the next visit to the US.
So the question - does it make any sense at all to bother returning the I-94? Does it change anything at all as far as US immigration officials are concerned?
Best Answer
I didn't once, and I got told off.
I was on Greyhound back into Canada, and they just cruised on through, easily, without handing in anything.
Then the next time I was entering the US, he opened to see my I-94 slip. He got quite vocal about how I was meant to return this, I apologised and he just shrugged and shoved it in a drawer with many, many more.
The next time I crossed the border, I insisted that I give mine to the Canadian border guy, who seemed a bit bemused, but took it anyway.
Short version: I did this, got a telling off, that was the extent of it.
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Do I need to return my I-94?
Under U.S. law, all travelers to the United States must return the I-94 or I-94W departure record cards to the appropriate USCIS authorities before departing the United States. A traveler who fails to do so may be recorded as making an untimely departure from the United States.Can I travel to Canada with I-94?
To reduce wait times, CBP is urging travelers who require an I-94 to apply and prepay online before arriving at the land border. A Form I-94 is needed by all visitors except: U.S. citizens, returning resident aliens, aliens with immigrant visas, and most Canadian citizens visiting or in transit.How do I update my I-94 without leaving the country?
You can submit an application for an extension of stay by mail or you can file online using USCIS ELIS for an extension of stay before the expiration date on your Form I-94.Why is the I-94 important?
The I-94 \u2014 sometimes incorrectly called a \u201c1-94\u201d form \u2014 is used to keep track of non-citizens entering and leaving the United States. It's an important document because it proves you entered the country lawfully, and also shows the date by which you must leave the United States.What should you do if your I-94 record is not showing up online?
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