The United States has clarified that the expiry date printed on a visitor’s visa does not determine how long the person may remain in the country.
According to US authorities, the duration of a foreign visitor’s authorised stay is determined by a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the point of entry.
In a public advisory, the US government warned international travellers against assuming that they can remain in the country until the expiration date on their visa.
“Reminder! The length of time an international visitor is allowed to stay in the United States is determined by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon your arrival, NOT your visa expiration date,” the advisory stated.
A visa allows a traveller to travel to a US port of entry and request admission. However, the final decision on whether the visitor is admitted, as well as the length of time they are permitted to stay, rests with the CBP officer at the port of entry.
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The authorities advised international visitors to check their electronic I-94 arrival and departure record after entering the country.
The “admit until” date on the I-94 record indicates the specific date by which a visitor is required to leave the United States.
The clarification is aimed at correcting a common misunderstanding among international travellers, many of whom mistakenly believe that the visa expiration date determines their authorised period of stay.
Overstaying Could Affect Future Travel
Visitors who remain in the United States beyond the date authorised on their I-94 record may violate US immigration laws.
Such violations could have consequences for future visa applications and subsequent travel to the United States.
The US authorities therefore urged all international visitors to review their I-94 records after arrival and confirm the duration of their authorised stay to avoid unintentionally overstaying their permitted period.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.