U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced that it will discontinue the routine use of admission stamps during primary processing for travelers arriving in the United States. The change is part of CBP’s broader efforts to modernize the admission process, expand the use of technology, and reduce processing times and operating costs.
The elimination of the routine admission stamp does not mean that a traveler’s admission or authorized period of stay will no longer be documented. Instead, this information will continue to be maintained electronically through the I-94 system. Travelers can access their admission record, authorized length of stay, and five years of arrival history through the official CBP I-94 website or the CBP Link mobile application.
Admission stamps may still be issued in certain circumstances, including during secondary processing, in limited primary processing situations involving immigrant visas, or when specifically requested by the traveler.
This change is particularly relevant for travelers who have traditionally relied on a passport stamp as evidence of their admission to the United States or authorized period of stay. Travelers should become familiar with their electronic I-94 record and review it after entering the United States to confirm that the information is accurate.
CBP also emphasized the importance of accurate and timely Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) transmissions from airlines, as this information feeds directly into the I-94 system. Errors or delays in the transmission of passenger information may affect the availability or accuracy of a traveler’s electronic admission record.
If a traveler has difficulty accessing their I-94 record, CBP advises contacting the appropriate Port of Entry for assistance. INLG will continue monitoring the implementation of this change and its potential implications for individuals traveling to the United States