The United States government is updating its admission procedures and gradually phasing out physical ink stamps placed in travelers’ passports upon arrival. Foreign travelers entering the country on valid visas may no longer receive an entry stamp at border control. According to Miraz.TV, citing information from the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR), this transition applies to foreign nationals entering the US on visas.
Electronic Form I-94 Becomes the Primary Official Record
Border authorities emphasize that the absence of a passport stamp does not mean entry has not been formalized. Instead, the electronic Form I-94 now serves as the primary legal document governing arrival. A traveler’s entry timestamp and the exact expiration date of their authorized stay are recorded directly in this digital database.
Checking the “Admit Until Date” Versus Visa Validity
Travelers are advised to visit the official US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website immediately after clearing border inspection to verify their I-94 record. Visitors should navigate to the “Get Most Recent I-94/I-95” section, submit their passport details, and carefully check the “admit until date.”
This date strictly determines the legal duration of stay in the United States and must not be confused with the visa’s expiration date. While a visa might remain valid for several years, permission to remain in the US on any given visit is strictly bounded by the date indicated on the electronic Form I-94.
Exceptions Where Physical Stamps May Still Be Issued
Despite the broader shift toward digital records, traditional ink stamps have not been completely abandoned. Border protection officers may still stamp a passport under specific circumstances, such as for individuals traveling on immigrant visas, during secondary inspections, or upon an explicit request made by the passenger.
