​​If you don’t file or properly manage your I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record), there can be serious immigration consequences.

 

Here are some potential issues:

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1. Unlawful Presence

If your I-94 expires and you stay in the U.S., you may begin accruing unlawful presence, which can lead to:

• 3-year ban if you overstay more than 180 days

• 10-year ban if you overstay more than 1 year

 

2. Inability to Extend or Change Status

• USCIS generally requires a valid I-94 to process extensions or changes of status (e.g., from B-2 to F-1).

• An expired or missing I-94 can make you ineligible for future immigration benefits.

 

3. Denial of Future Visas

• When you apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate, they may review your I-94 history.

• Past overstay or status violations can lead to visa denials.

 

4. Complications When Leaving/Re-entering the U.S.

• If the I-94 wasn’t filed correctly (especially for land entries or CBP errors), your departure may not be recorded.

• That can create problems when trying to re-enter, as CBP may assume you overstayed.

 

5. Loss of Status

• If you're in the U.S. on a temporary visa (like H-1B, F-1, etc.), and your I-94 expires, you lose your legal status, even if your visa stamp is still valid.

 

6. Difficulties with Employment or School Enrollment

• Many employers and schools rely on I-94 to verify lawful presence.

• An expired or missing I-94 may result in termination from a job or school suspension.