I-94 Requirements for Australian Citizens

Question

Hello,

Flying in from Australia to USA, what requirements are there for getting an I-94?

The ESTA has been approved, but now an email is saying we'll need to get this also done (but looking online it appears it's only for land border crossings?)

If it helps, the departure out of USA will be via Cruise Ship.

Thanks.

Answer

For Australian citizens traveling to the United States, the I-94 process depends on your mode of entry. Since you mentioned flying from Australia and your ESTA has already been approved, here’s how it works:

Electronic I-94 for Air Travelers

If you are entering the U.S. via an airport under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) with an approved ESTA, you do not need to fill out a paper I-94. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) automatically issues an electronic I-94 upon arrival, which records your entry date, visa status, and authorized length of stay.

Accessing Your I-94

You can view, download, or print your electronic I-94 from the CBP website after arrival. This is useful if a cruise company or other entity requests proof of legal entry.
The electronic I-94 will show your class of admission (B-2 for tourists under ESTA) and the “admit until” date.

When a Paper I-94 Is Required

Paper I-94 forms are mainly used for land border crossings (from Canada or Mexico) or for non-VWP visas, where a paper record is required at the port of entry.
Air and sea travelers under the VWP with ESTA generally do not get or need a paper I-94.

For Cruise Ship Departures

Your departure from the U.S. via cruise ship does not require a separate I-94 process. The electronic I-94 issued at your air entry will cover your legal status while in the U.S. You should ensure you depart before the “admit until” date shown on your I-94 to avoid overstaying.

Summary

Australian citizens flying to the U.S. under ESTA: no paper I-94 needed.
Electronic I-94 is automatically created by CBP upon arrival at the airport.
Land border crossings require paper I-94s; this does not apply to air arrivals.
Departure via cruise ship is covered by the original electronic I-94 entry.

In short, for your trip flying from Australia and departing via cruise ship, you do not need to do anything extra to obtain an I-94; just ensure you have your ESTA approval and keep a copy of the electronic I-94 for reference.

I-94 Requirements for Australian Citizens

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