What is the difference between a visa and I-94 admission record?

A visa is a travel document issued by a US consulate that allows you to travel to a US port of entry and request admission. It has its own validity period during which you may present yourself at a border. The visa does not determine how long you may stay inside the US once admitted.

The I-94 Arrival/Departure Record is issued by Customs and Border Protection when you enter the US. It records the date, port of entry, visa classification, and authorized period of stay. The I-94 is what controls how long you may legally remain in the US. Since 2013, it is electronic rather than a paper card and can be looked up at the CBP I-94 website.

For example, a person with a 10-year B-2 visa may be admitted for only six months at a time (as recorded on their I-94). They can re-enter multiple times within the 10-year visa validity, but each stay is limited to the I-94 authorized period. Staying beyond the I-94 date, even if the visa has not expired, constitutes a status violation.

This is general information only, not legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration lawyer or registered migration agent for your specific situation.