The admission record number, commonly known as an admission number, is a unique identifier assigned to most nonimmigrant individuals when they enter the United States. This crucial number is found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Form I-94 or CBP Form I-94W, which serves as an arrival/departure record.
Understanding the Admission Number
The admission number acts as an essential record of an individual's legal entry into the U.S. and indicates their authorized period of stay. It is distinct from a visa number and is a primary tool for government agencies to track the entry and departure of foreign visitors.
Where to Find Your Admission Number
Historically, the admission number was part of a physical paper form, either a small white (I-94) or green (I-94W) card, typically stapled into the individual's passport. However, the process has largely transitioned to an electronic format:
- CBP Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record): For most nonimmigrants arriving by air or sea. This record is often created electronically, and individuals can typically access and print it from the official CBP website.
- CBP Form I-94W (Arrival/Departure Record for Visa Waiver Program): Used by eligible travelers under the Visa Waiver Program.
Even when the record is electronic, the unique admission number remains associated with the individual's entry. For instance, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) refers to this number as it's issued by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to nonimmigrant aliens upon their arrival in the United States.
Who Receives an Admission Number?
The admission number is issued primarily to nonimmigrant aliens upon their arrival in the U.S. This category includes a wide range of visitors, such as:
- Tourists
- Students
- Temporary workers
- Exchange visitors
- Individuals participating in the Visa Waiver Program
U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and certain individuals, such as most Canadians visiting for pleasure or short-term business, are generally not issued an I-94 or an admission number.
Importance and Uses of the Admission Number
The admission number is a vital piece of information for nonimmigrants in the U.S. It serves several critical purposes:
- Proof of Legal Entry: It is the official record proving that an individual entered the United States legally.
- Authorized Period of Stay: It specifies the date by which an individual must depart the U.S. or apply for an extension of stay.
- Required for Applications: Many official processes require this number, including:
- Applying for a driver's license or state ID.
- Applying for a Social Security number.
- Applying to extend one's stay or change immigration status.
- Verifying legal presence for employment or other purposes.
- Governmental Tracking: Agencies like CBP and ATF utilize this number for record-keeping and regulatory compliance related to nonimmigrant status.
Key Details at a Glance
For clarity, here's a summary of the admission number's key attributes:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| What it is | A unique identifier for nonimmigrant aliens. |
| Where it's found | On the CBP Form I-94 or CBP Form I-94W. Historically a paper card, now often an electronic record accessible online. |
| Who gets it | Most nonimmigrant aliens upon their arrival in the U.S. |
| Purpose | Serves as proof of legal entry and authorized stay, and is required for various applications (e.g., driver's license, Social Security number) and by government agencies (e.g., ATF). |
