Many Cubans and other migrants in the United States encounter issues such as their Form I-94 not appearing on the official portal or containing incorrect information. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has a structured process to address these concerns, which is crucial for critical applications like permanent residency.
This guide does not offer individual legal advice nor introduce any new regulations. Instead, it aims to clarify, based on CBP's official guidelines, the steps to take when your entry record is missing or incorrect.
Verify Search Information First
Before assuming your I-94 is nonexistent, ensure the details entered on the i94.cbp.dhs.gov portal match those on the document used upon entering the country. Correcting I-94 issues is just one of many processes migrants face in the U.S. Stay updated on visas, residency, and other procedures in our U.S. Immigration section.
Make sure the following fields match exactly: full name, date of birth, document number, and country of citizenship. If your passport includes multiple last names or first names, enter them in the exact order they appear on the document.
CBP also allows retrieval attempts by scanning the passport's machine-readable zone (MRZ) or using the CBP Link mobile app with a Login.gov account. For those who entered with a Form I-862 (Notice to Appear) without a passport, CBP permits searching for the I-94 using the Alien Registration Number (A-number) in the document number field, although not all cases can be retrieved this way.
When the I-94 Is Still Missing or Incorrect
If prior verifications fail to resolve the issue, CBP provides two main options. The first is utilizing the "Ask a Question" form through the CBP Information Center, selecting "I-94 / Traveler Compliance" as the topic and "Issue with my I-94/Travel History" as the subcategory. The form warns that selecting the wrong topic may delay the response, which typically takes 3 to 5 business days.
The second option involves visiting a CBP Deferred Inspection office, which can correct entry-related errors such as name, birthdate, immigration classification, or admission period. CBP's FAQ suggests doing this within 30 days of admission or parole, though corrections can still be made later; acting promptly is advisable.
Involvement of USCIS Instead of CBP
If the I-94 was issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) rather than CBP, the correct procedure is filing Form I-102 with USCIS. This should include the incorrect original document, a signed statement identifying the error, and evidence of the correct information.
As a last resort, if the record remains missing, CBP advises filing a request under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Starting January 22, 2026, these requests must be submitted digitally through CBP SecureRelease or FOIA.gov; paper or email submissions will no longer be accepted.
Important Considerations
Not finding your I-94 on the portal doesn't automatically mean a lack of parole or valid immigration status. Correcting an I-94 also does not transform an I-220A into parole nor assure eligibility for residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act. A recent analysis regarding documents needed for Form I-485 emphasizes that receiving an I-220A instead of documentation proving admission or parole does not equate to the same legal effect.
This distinction has grown more significant since USCIS tightened its evidence standards in August 2026, reminding applicants that it can deny applications without first issuing a request for additional evidence (RFE). Thus, ensuring your I-94 is accurate before applying for residency has become increasingly urgent.
Common Questions about I-94 Issues
What should I do if my I-94 is missing or incorrect?
First, verify that the information entered on the i94.cbp.dhs.gov portal matches the document used upon entry. If issues persist, use the "Ask a Question" form with CBP or visit a Deferred Inspection office.
Can I correct my I-94 after 30 days of admission?
Yes, while it is advisable to correct it within 30 days, you can still make corrections afterward by visiting a Deferred Inspection office.
How do I handle I-94 issues if it was issued by USCIS?
File Form I-102 with USCIS, including the original incorrect document, a signed statement identifying the error, and evidence of the correct information.