Many travelers mistakenly believe that obtaining a U.S. visa guarantees entry into the United States. However, a visa only allows individuals to travel to a U.S. port of entry and request admission, with the final decision resting with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at various checkpoints.
Key Details:
- A U.S. visa does not equate to guaranteed entry; CBP officers make the final admission decision.
- Visa validity and authorized stay are different; the authorized stay is recorded on Form I-94 at entry.
- F-1 and J-1 visa holders may receive “D/S” (Duration of Status) on their I-94, allowing them to stay as long as they meet program requirements.
- Overstaying authorized stay can lead to serious consequences, including a 3-year bar for overstays over 180 days and a 10-year bar for overstays over one year.
Travelers must carefully review their I-94 records upon entry to maintain lawful immigration status in the U.S. Need help with your immigration case? Visit QuickFiling.us for professional immigration services.
Source: Poorvi Chothani, Esq.