Home » US Immigration - Visas » I-94 Extension in US at Canada Border – 6 Experiences[2022]

I-94 Extension in US at Canada Border – 6 Experiences[2022]

Many of the US non-immigrant visa holders would get shorter duration on the I-94 than the visa expiration or I-797 approval notice due to expiring passport, when they enter US and go through Port of entry Process. In general, it would have been a straightforward process to Extend I-94 after Passport Renewal in US. But, now with travel restrictions in place due to COVID-19, it is very different, and tricky situation.

Couple of our readers, Vinod & MS were in similar situation. After much research, they were able get his I-94 extended by not flying out of the country. They was kind enough to take time to share his detail experience. Thanks a lot to them for taking the effort and sharing it with our community. We really appreciate it ! You can also share with our readers, by emailing it at redbus2us@gmail.com or by adding the same in comments, we will update it in article.

You can also read I-94 Extension at Peace Arch (US, Canada Border)- 2 Experiences


I-94 Extension Experience at Detroit Windsor Tunnel

Experience 1 at Canada Border by Kiran

Background – Checking with CBP Office : Our Experience on I-94 updated for H4 Visa at Detroit Windsor Tunnel. My Wife on H4 Visa, called Detroit Windsor Tunnel (313-393-3793 Extn: 0) and told them that H4 visa has validity till Feb 2023, but due to passport expiry date, the I-94 was short dated with the passport expiry date. Now that she has a New Passport, can she come to get it updated with the Visa Expiry date.

They Said, yes, you can come, just make sure that the visa stamp expiry date in passport is greater than the day you are visiting. My Wife asked, can my husband accompany me and he does not have valid stamp on passport but has, valid I-797. The CBP officer, said, would not recommend for your husband to travel. Any one who is a citizen, GC, or having valid visa Stamp greater than travel date can accompany you.

I-94 Extension Experience at the US Canada Border

  1. Paid Toll of $5, only credit card.
  2. First Check post. Asked questions why you are here ? Replied to get I-94 updated by doing flag post. Took the Passport with Visa Stamping and new passport. In turn the personnel calls some one on phone and then allowed my wife to travel.
  3. Once reached Canada, the canada officer comes out and asks the same questions and took the documents inside and returned in 10 minutes
    with a letter and gave directions on how to proceed to USA.
  4. Once reached USA, we are asked to get out of the car (keys to be left in car) and only take the necessary documents inside.
  5. Once inside, they took all the documents and completed the work and asked to Pay $6 towards I-94 (CC accepted).

Total time : 65 minutes.

Note: My Wife requested her Citizen Friend, to accompany her, and she came down with her passport and Driving License.

Where ever my wife was asked for documents, they asked her Friend for the passport as well and asked the questions on their relation.

1) How are you related to each other? — Friends
2) Do you live in same house ? — No, but we live in same town
3) For how many years you have been know to each other? — more than a year
4) Question to Citizen friend. How to do you call her?

My Wife asked about online updation: The Officer said, we do not have control over the online updation. If it does not get updated.
Please reach out to your local BMV office and they should be able to verify the I-94.

I-94 — Computerized printed.

Note: Nothing is open around the tunnel if travelling with family. I and our daughter had to roam here and there to see how we can stay warm, as we both did not have valid stamp on the passport

Everything went Smoothly…. they stamped ” Date of Admit as “JAN 08”, but the last line on I-94 is printed “20210109”. Hope this Helps for people willing to get I-94 Updated at Detroit Windsor Tunnel.


Experience 2 at Canada Border by Vinod

My Situation – Passport Renewal, on H1B Visa, I-94 Expiration

  • I have recently renewed my Indian passport (in Chicago Indian Consulate). But, my current I-94 is valid only till my old passport expiry date which is June 2020.
  • In general, CBP officer will issue I-94 end date either petition/VISA end date or passport expiry date when you enter US. In my case, I have H1B I-797 approval notice and H1B Visa stamp on old passport, which is valid till 2021 August, but my passport was expiring in June 2020. Hence, I got I-94 till June 2020.
  • Now with the new passport in hand, I need new I-94 with the validity matching to my VISA stamp and the I-797 petition end date. I live and work in Michigan.

Options for Extending my I-94 after Passport Renewal

After my research I realized that there are only three options to renew I-94.

  1. Travel outside of US, re-enter : Travel outside US and Re-enter by holding both old and new passport. CBP POE will issue new I-94 based on new passport and VISA expiry date
    1. Travel to India and Re-enter to the United States is the best option. No consequences, you are legally re-entering with new passport, VISA stamp on old passport & approved I-797.
    2. Travel to Mexico ( Indian citizens holding US H1 VISA can travel to Mexico without Mexican VISA) and Re-enter to the United States.
    3. Travel to Canada ( Indian citizens require Canada Visitor VISA) and Re-enter to the United States.
  2. SENTRI Enrollment Center : Go to SENTRI enrollment center in Laredo-Texas, San Diego ( Otay Mesa or San Ysidro) or Arizona. Sentri enrollment centers are there in only Texas, California and Arizona state.
    • Process is very simple. You just walk into the enrollment center, pay the $6 fees at PERMITS section and attend POE interview. Better to fill and pay online “New I-94 request form” and carry the printout.
    • This SENTRI enrollment centers are inside US, so no question of crossing the border.
  3. CBP Locations : Go to the one of the below three CBP location and renew your I-94 – Need to cross the border and re-enter. All are pedestrian crossing locations in Mexican border. Pay online fees for new I-94 and attend the POE interview to get new I-94.
    • a. Laredo-Texas ( gateway bridge 1): Enter the bridge walk mid-way and walk on yellow line back to US line ( per different forums online, this is legal so no worries). Up on meeting CBP officer, you will be called for an POE interview and officer will issue you a new I-94.
    • b. San Ysidro East and West – San Diego CBP POE office: Go to the CBP office and request for I-94 renewal, if you are lucky you will get new I-94 based on your online payment receipt without crossing the border. However if the CBP officer asks you to cross the border then just cross the pedestrian border line, return and join to the US line. Crossing the border is easy, just a pedestrian crossing so no need to go to the Mexican side to meet Mexico officers. Just a walk, cross the line and U turn kind of deal.
    • c. Otay Mesa – San Diego CBP POE office: Same rule applies here as 3.b above.
    • I have called all above a, b & c locations and the CBP officers confirmed me that I-94 renewal is a valid case and they will issue new I-94. But the condition is you have to cross the border and officer will guide you back to join the US line. As long as you have proper I-797, living in the US legally and a VISA stamp on old passport you are good to Re-enter to the United States in all the three pedestrian crossing locations.

How I Extended my I-94, Process followed with COVID-19 Travel Issue.

Due to Covid-19 pandemic and all international restrictions in place, my options were limited. Option no 1 and 2 were not possible for me. I was left with CBP option. Below is the process I followed.

  • Contacted CBP Detroit: I have called CBP Detroit Windsor tunnel office and explained my situation. Officer assured me that I can re-enter to the United States if Canada is ready to let me in. But there is a Non-Essential travel ban in place between US and Canada. However, officer suggested me to contact Canada border agency and explain my situation to them and request for entering Canada and Re-enter to the US.
  • Contacted Canada Border Agency : I have contacted Windsor tunnel Canada border agency and explained my situation and told officer that I will be just crossing the border and will take U-turn go back to the US. Officer assured me as long as I don’t enter Canada, I am good to take U turn and re-enter.

Now the challenging and risky part 🙂

  • Drove to Detroit Windsor Tunnel : I just drove to the Detroit Windsor tunnel and entered the tunnel. Upon arriving at Canada border, officers asked me the reason. I stated the actual reason (to get the new I-94 back in US POE) and told officer that I don’t’ want to enter the Canada and my purpose of visit is just to cross the US border and Re-enter to get new I-94. I will just take U turn and go back. Officer called other officers and they pulled me to park the car in parking lot. I explained the situation and they did few paperwork and handed over my passport and a letter stating that I have travelled as Non-Essential travel category and they are sending me back to the US. Officer told me to hand over the letter to the US CBP officer and they guided me to drive back to the US
  • Arriving at US Port of Entry, Interview with CBP officer : Upon arriving at the US POE. Officer asked me the reason, I stated same like to renew my I-94 I have crossed the border. Officer did POE interview, I had filled online new I-94 request form ( you can fill this form only using old passport) and paid the fees online. Handed over the I-94 request form to the officer and they guided me to the CBP office in border crossing ( US side). I went inside and attended regular POE interview, explained my reason for the travel to Canada border and told officer that I did not step out of my car and just took a U-turn. Officer took the finger prints and issued me a new I-94 paper record attaching to my new passport.

Anything to note or Potential Issues with the above process ?  

 In general, no issues. Entry and Exit is as normal. However, you cannot enter into Canada during Covid-19 pandemic because of the non-essential travel ban. But going to the Canada border and taking U turn is feasible because they won’t let you inside and they will have to send you back to the US. But, you should have valid Canada Visitor VISA.

Key learnings, Tips for I-94 Extension with Passport Extension in US

  1. Be honest, no matter what do not try to give wrong answers or some cover up story. All we need is legal I-94 and do it at the right way. All option 1, 2 & 3 are valid cases.
  2. Fill and pay the fees for new I-94 record online. Go the I-94 website and fill & pay online take the print out. It is valid for 7 days.
  3. During this Covid-19 Pandemic, options are little tricky. Please check the travel restrictions in State ( example:  You cannot travel to Texas from other state, there is a mandatory 14 days quarantine order in place)
  4. Northern side folks can try Canada border during this Covid-19 pandemic situation as long as you have valid Canada Visitor VISA. If you don’t have Canada Visa , please confirm with Canada border agency before you enter. Otherwise you may have to face the consequences, in my opinion they will still deport you or send you back to the US even if you don’t have VISA.
  5. Texas and San Diego is the best options for other state folks.

That’s it folks.  Be prepared and Good Luck !

If any questions, leave comments, I will be happy to answer.


Experience 3 from VJ – Word of caution for above process. Thanks to VJ.

Not able to Renew I-94 at US Canada Border

Hello Everyone: A quick update on my case. I drove all the way from Chicago to Detroit (Detroit-Windsor tunnel), however, I wasn’t successful in getting my I94 updated. Felt I was a bit unlucky. I did cross the US border, entered Canada, and explained my situation. They were nice, polite, and agreed to send me back after some verification (took about 30 min).

On returning I was stopped in the Detroit checkpoint, and the officer politely admitted me WITHOUT renewing my I94. On explaining the situation, the officer said, since I was not technically Admitted into Canada (just turned back from border), I never really left US, and hence cannot be issued a new I94. The devil lies in the details. I Returned from Canada checkpoint, however since I wasn’t admitted in Canada, It is counted as , I never left US. Weird. But this is what happened. Looks like it is at the sole discretion of the CBP officer at the checkpoint.

Note: I had called the officers on both sides of the border, explained my situation 2 days ago, and was given a green signal, and hence I made the journey. However it turns out, the decision is made by the officer on duty and there isn’t a standard protocol.

So, when you plan the above, have backup plans as well, if the above does not work out…


Experience 4 – Successful I-94 extension from MS

I-94 Extension Experience for H4 Child at Canada Border

Hello Hi My name is MS. FIRST of all am really thankful to everyone for sharing their experiences. I would like to share mine for my daughter I94 extension. Myself and my spouse has H1 visa and I94 till Aug 2021 but as my daughter is 5 year old and her passport expiring in October 2020 and has valid I94 only till October 2020 I had to apply for new passport at Chicago consulate and got it last week.
As we live in Detroit I tried 2 options No risk and bit risky I read the above process and followed exactly step by step.

Airport CBP Office

First no risk — as few said if we can go to Detroit or any Airport CBP in person they may entertain our request for I94 extension but it didn’t work they said we need an appointment and also said they do corrections only and all requests need to submit via email gave a slip which has the below content DTWI94CORRECTIONS@CBP.DHS.GOV (include description, error attach passport bio page,visa,stamp photo, supporting docs I797 etc., most recent I94) sent back .

Disappointed as it did not work, gathered some courage me and my spouse decided to go Windsor tunnel

Driving to US – Canda Border for I-94 Extension

I followed the same process as stated above in experience 1 by Manish.

Step1 – Calling CBP US and Canda Border offices

Called CBP USA and Canada as well explained my situation (I informed I DON’T HAVE CANADIAN VISA to Canada agency) and got thumbs up to come. — link for contact https://www.dwtunnel.com/contact/

Step 2 : Going to Windsor Tunnel – Canda Border

Entered Windsor tunnel paying $5 toll drove all the way to end to see that there is Canada CBP border shelter entered in line am little nervous but remained calm in car as my turn came there is officer (lady) asked our passports I explained my situation she was very serious and asked why you entered without visa do you know there is restriction. the officer asked me the reason for being there and also how much money do I have ? I said $25 and I said I want an I-94 extension for my kid and that is the purpose to cross the border. I don’t want to enter Canada I just need to go US POE. I was asked about multiple things by the officer she came out and told me to take U turn keeping a yellow paper on wind shield.

When I reached the other side there are 3 officers asked me to park a side and said since I have no visa they will send me back I felt OK but tensed as they took my passports to deal with some papers inside I remained in car I believe after around 15 tense minutes that officer came out and handed over the passports, as well as a letter to sign stating that for not having a visa they are not allowing us and sending us back. I read me and my wife signed gave docs he gave a copy and placed on windshield. Then, I was guided on how to get to the U.S. tunnel and I was told to give the letter to the U.S. CBP officer.

Step 3 – Entering US Border from Canada

I entered tunnel and to the US border a officer at small shelter named “all traffic” asked reason for entry and I said same for my daughter I94 extension . he asked same question like Canadian officer how much money do I have? I said $25. he called someone gave a yellow slip to enter CBP US POE office. upfront 2 guards guided me to park my car asked to open all car doors hood and trunk leaving phone and keys in car. They asked me to step out gave the docs on windshield ,yellow slip searched my wife’s hand band and to guided us to CBP office.

Step 4 – CBP Officer – I-94 Extension Process

I entered inside only one officer was there in office may be due to COVID. He asked me to come front and asked the reason for arrival I said for my kid’s I94 extension he asked to give documents we have.I gave I797 and passports and online $6 paid receipt for I94 nothing else he asked us to take a seat. He took around 5-10 min in the meanwhile he is stamping we understood that he was granting I94 and we are really happy. He called us gave passports and docs and said we are ALL SET!!!

That’s it !!!! we exited happily out from office.
we went to see all car doors ,hood and trunk open for checking I guess we closed everything and were guided to leave ..

🙂 Happily left from there. Thanks again for those who wrote their experiences we are really appreciate your effort in turn which encouraged me write mine. I apologize for any language and grammatical mistakes.


Experience 5 – Successful I-94 extension from GO

Successful I-94 Extension at Canada Border Windsor Tunnel

I was able to renew my I-94 at the Windsor-Tunnel at the Canada border in US recently in Oct 2020.

  • My situation was basically the same like most people here. I am on a H1-B visa with a valid date till Aug 2022 but my old passport was expiring in Dec 2020, so did my I-94.
  • I work and live in Michigan, so going to Canada border was my best bet.
  • After I renewed my passport, I called up the CBP at the Detroit’s Windsor Tunnel and explained my situations. The officer told me that they did I-94 renewal all the time and gave me a green light to come.
  • I did not even call the Canada border and I just drove all the way to the border. Before going into the tunnel, I had to pay $5 at the toll booth.
  • I drove through the tunnel and went straight to the Canada border. The Canada officer asked for my passport and reason to enter Canada. I told him that I was there to renew my I-94 and the US officer asked to cross the border and U-turned back to US so that I could get my I-94 renewed.
  • He put a red slip at my windshield and asked my to pull up my car to the side. 2 officers came out and took the red slip and asked me why I was here and I explained my situation again.
  • They told me that they had to deny my entry because I did not have a Canada visa. I said that’s fine and that was what I wanted as well. They took my passport and did some paperwork. After 5-10 mins, they came back to me and asked me to sign two papers. I kept one and the officer took the other one. The papers are basically the proof to show to the US officer that I did entered the Canada border but got denied because I did not have the Canada visa.
  • I took the paper with me and drove back through the tunnel again and reached the US border. The US officer asked for my passport, I-797 and the paper that the Canada’s officer gave me. He asked me why I was denied and told him I crossed the border to get my I-94 renewed. He called 2 officers and asked me to pull my car to the side.
  • The 2 officers asked to step out from the car and left my phone in the car. I was only allowed to take my wallet and documents/passport to the office. I went into the office by myself while the 2 officers were inspecting my car. When I was in the office, the officer at the counter asked me why I was there.
  • I explained my situations again and provided all the passport and documents he requested, + $6 for I-94 renewal fee. He also took my fingerprints and photo. He asked me to take a seat while waiting for him to process the documents. After 10-15mins, I was called and he handed me my passport with the updated I-94 form attached in my passport. It all set!

My experience was pretty much same as what the first and third experiences shared above! It was smooth, easy and fast. I was worried at first before I decided to take the Canada’s option. But after seeing successful experiences from above, I think that really gave me the confident to do that. I shared my recent experiences here so that you would not need to worry about it when crossing the Canada border to renew your I-94.



Experience 6 – Successful I-94 extension from Ketan

Successful I-94 Extension at Lewinston – Queenston Bridge Canada Border

I’m sharing my experience crossing the border to renew my I94 by car driving from upstate New York to Canada via the Lewinston – Queenston bridge border crossing on 29th Oct 2020.

  • To give you some context, I work as an academic researcher on H1B status and I got my Canadian PR last year, so I would be able to cross the border in non-COVID circumstances.
  • My old passport was going to expire in early November so I’d got my passport renewed but my I94 was going to expire in November as well. So, after checking with the international office lawyer at my school, I decided to make the drive.
  • I had posted my query on a Facebook group and was told to insist that the Canadian CBP agent stamp my passport so as to have proof of entry in Canada, so I kept that in mind. This is because, if you technically made a U turn and did not get a stamp signifying your entry into Canada, the CBP agent in the US may not renew your I94, since they may bring up that you did not enter Canada, therefore not exiting the US.
  • I drove up to the Canadian CBP agent, explained I was renewing my I94 and requested the entry stamp, he ended up giving me a form that said my entry was refused at the border due to COVID travel restrictions, but he still gave me an entry stamp.
  • Note, they may not do this if you aren’t a PR holder. I was asked about why I wasn’t living in Canada, and I responded saying that I received my PR after I got the job in the US and would be moving to Canada eventually.
  • Then the agent asked me to drive up to his car and I followed him back to the path that lead to the US. At the US CBP, they collected my documents, and I mentioned I was coming in to get my I94 renewed. I was asked about the stamp and I said I spent a few minutes in Canada and turned back to come to the US.
  • They took my passport, and asked me to park my car under a grey canopy, and then instructed me to go into the facility where my biometrics were collected. This is a closed facility with officers sitting behind windows, similar to the airport. I took my documents and my car keys.
  • I was asked where I worked and if there would be any major sporting events this year? My fingerprints were collected and I was asked to pay the fee. I had already paid the fee online for renewal and printed the receipt.
  • I gave them the receipt and I was given a paper I94 and a stamp with the updated date corresponding with my visa expiration.

   

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117 Comments

  1. Hi,

    My situation is special case. My L1 extension has been approved but approval notice I797 my company attorney not received yet, so my company attorney filled I824 form to get duplicate copy but no luck yet. I filed FOIA and got copy of approved I129 petition.

    My old I 94 is already expired in March 2022. But still I have valid stamp visa till Jan 2023.

    My wife dependent approval notice I797 we have received with new I94 which is valid till Nov 2023.

    In this situation should I go to Rainbow bridge Niagara (or any USA border) and do the flagpolling to get the new I94 similar as my dependent.

    Please advice?

    Thank you
    Uttam Kumar

    Reply
    • Uttam,
      Usually, if they ask for approval notice, you would need it. It is a tricky situation as you do not have it. But, you have the FOIA info… I would suggest, you talk to your attorney and understand the risks before you plan it as your case is not normal.

      Reply
      • Thank you Kumar for your response.

        I already checked with my company attorney even they are not giving me this option they are simply suggesting me to either o back to India and wait for approval notice or be on LWP until will receive the approval notice. Not suggesting any other option at all.
        My only fear is if they will ask for I797 and I will produce all other supporting document like extension receipt notice + I 824 form receipt + my wife I797. Is that not sufficient to do flag polling and CBP will allow me to give new I49.

        Thanks
        Uttam

        Reply
        • Uttam,
          Follow your company’s advice. They need to support you for all the aspects. It is a grey area, if the PIMS is not updated, then it can be tricky. Having supporting documentation may or may not be sufficient. It is your discretion. Talk to another attorney as well and take second opinion.

          Reply
          • Hi Kumar,

            I few days back my DL got expired and I went to DMV with my supporting document. In first attempt DMV system not able to process it and so she sent my document to enforcement office for verification.
            In the next day they verified and gave them dates. and in my next appointment they have renewed my DL and gave same date as FOIA doc/dependent I94.

            So now my DL is renewed with same I94 date.

            Is that means USCIS PIMS has my updated details?

            What you suggest now?

            Regards
            Uttam

  2. Hi Kumar,

    My husband is working in L1B and I’m working with I 94 L2S category . Our visa is expiring by 31-Oct-2022 and my husband has I 797 Approval notice for his L1B renewal but I’m yet to get approval for L2 renewal. Can we travel to Canada/Mexico border to update our I 94 based on my husband’s I 797 Approval notice? If so should we have valid Canada Visa to enter and renew our I 94 ?
    Any experience and the details/process for the same will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

    Reply
  3. My H4 is expiring in a month(October 2022) and we have applied for visa renewal and awaiting on the renewal status. My I94 was already expired due to old passport expiry date but H4 visa/EAD is still valid till Oct 2022 and I got my new passport now.

    If I travel to India this month with my spouse I797 approval notice, does the officer at US POE give my I94 extension until my spouse’s visa validity or do i get it only till October as I have valid visa till October?

    Reply
    • Rani,
      Usually, when you enter US at an airport by flying to other country, with a valid visa, usually they will issue the I-94 date until your spouse’s end of the petition date. Make sure you give your new passport and also old passport for them.

      Reply
  4. Hello, my i94 expired on Sept 2021, and I have valid stamped i797A till November 2022. I don’t want to risk filling H1B extension with NPT. Can I get the i94 updated at DWT? Has anyone experienced any issues after 180 days of i94 expiry?

    Reply
    • Sab,
      If your I-94 expired, you must really get that fixed immediately. Best is to leave the country and re-enter. Speak to an attorney and make a decision.

      Reply
  5. Hi, My Daughter has the new passport and we went for I94 update based on her latest i797(H4). they put a stamp on new passport “admit until date- until the new 797 date”. however I do not find the record with new passport in online i94 and also with old passport number i94 admit until date was not updated. Does this sound correct? or do I need to do anything about it.

    Reply
    • Priyanka,
      If she entered at an immigration checkpoint and it was updated by CBP officer, she should be able to see it. If you do not find it, you can reach out to CBP Office email and get it fixed.

      Reply
  6. We were in a similar situation. My wife’s h4 and ead are in received status and I got my h1 approval. Both my wife and I have valid stamp from previous approvals. We decided to get my wife’s i94 extended based on my H1b extension approval so as to get the automatic ead 540 days extension at Detroit-Windsor border. Our plan was to pay toll at US side and park the car outside the duty free shop and for my wife to walk across to US CBP office with my 797 approval to get her i94 extension. But it did not go per the plan. I drove past the duty free shop as it was right after the toll gate and I missed it. I did not want to back up or take a u-turn at that point as I thought it might cause an issue (traffic violation) so didn’t risk it and continued onward into the tunnel and reached Canada check point. We explained to the officer about our actual plan and he was kind enough to understand. We told him we don’t have Canada visa and don’t want to enter Canada but he mentioned since we were at the Canada check point they need to do some paper work and he put an orange receipt on our windshield and pointed us to the inspection parking lot after verification of our passports and asking vaccination status, purpose of visit, what we were carrying, amount of money, where we live etc. The officers in the inspection parking lot saw the orange receipt and asked us to turn off the car and leave keys in and pointed us to go into an office. We explained the exact same thing to the officer at the desk inside and he took our passports and drivers license and explained that USA technically need not admit us back and so they needed to do some paper work. Took about half hour and he made both of us sign separate papers stating we are withdrawing our entry application into Canada. He kept a copy and gave us each another copy to submit at US port of entry. He came out with us to our car and gave back passports, drivers licenses and pointed us how to get back to the tunnel. We reached the US check point and explained to the officer we only wanted to visit CBP office to get i94 extension. He verified passports, asked our visa status, Duration of Canada visit and have a yellow receipt on the windshield and pointed to inspection parking lot. There were three officers that pointed us to a parking spot and asked us purpose of visit and asked us to leave phones, keys in the car and asked us open hood trunk and all doors. One of the officers took a look at our passports and documents and told us we need not be here as we have 797 approval. But anyway we were asked to proceed into the CBP office. Again same questions and same answer regarding the purpose. The officer took a look at both our visa stamps and mentioned that I have extended approval and pointed out that my wife has an issue that her i94 is ending soon. We again politely explained to the officer that we were at his office to get my wife’s i94 extended based on my approval. At this point he went in and checked with his supervisor and came back and started processing my i94 updated followed by my wife’s. We both have our finger prints and the officer took our photos. No fee was asked to be paid. In the meantime another officer stopped by and mentioned we need not come to the office and pointed out the already extended i94 in my 797 approval receipt. We again explained it was for my wife’s extension that we made the trip. We came out got in the car and the officer pointed us into USA. My feeling was at any interaction point it was a 50-50 chance that our trip is successful. Advice to go to crossings like Otay Mesa where this i94 extension is a more frequent occurring for better chances.

    Reply
  7. Renew I 94 to extend my H4 EAD auto extension(180 days), my husband got the h1b approval(I-797) and my H4 is filed and in case received status . My current I 94 expires on Dec 27th and want to extend my I 94 with my husband’s I 797 via land border(Mexico/Canada) with CBP officer, can I do that? Any experience and the details/process for the same will be greatly appreciated Thanks!

    Reply
    • Hi Krishna,

      I am in the same situation but current I-94 expires on Dec14th and H4 visa stamped on my passport is till Dec 4th ..My Husband got new I-797 approved until Dec2024 and my case i still pending. I also want to extend my I94 with my husbands I797 via land and then come back and reapply for H4 and H4 EAD before my current I-94 expires. Please let me know if you got any update from anyone about this situation

      Thanks
      D

      Reply
    • Hi Krishna
      My wife is also in the same situation, were you able to get I-94 renewed ..?
      could you please share your experience which will help us.

      Reply
  8. Hi Kumar,

    Appreciate if you can help out here.

    My wife has valid stamp h1b visa till 20th sept and her i94 on i797 also shows 20th sept date. However , she flew back from India in Sept last year and because of passport expiration coming up, the officer only gave i94 until 1st Feb. We didn’t realize this until recently and in the mean time her passport is updated.

    We live in Michigan, So question is would you suggest crossing taking windsor tunnel and taking u turn into US to get i94 updated ? She doesn’t have valid Canadian visa. I know our current i94 online is already expired but i was thinking of taking that chance since she has new passport, valid h1b stamping visa till sept and also i94 on 797 is good till sept. So our hope is to get updated i94.

    Your help is really appreciated .

    Reply
  9. my situation – we have to go to Canada port of entry for confirming our Canada PR status by August 2021. We are in US now on H1B. Both our H1B-I797 visas are valid till 2023 but the passports do not have the corresponding visa stamp. Also, my I94 expires in Septmber 2021 as my passport was expiring. I got my passport renewed. I read above how i can go to CBP offices near the Canada border to get the I94 extended. We need to cross the Canada border too to get Canada PR. Can we do these steps without problem with the current restrictions. I am aware of the restrictions to enter Canada. Can we enter back into US with just valid I797s? Then i can also get the I94 extended on my way back. Do any of you have this recent experience? Do we need to make appointments anywhere?
    Thank you for reading.

    Reply
  10. Hi All,

    I need to know if anyone recently got their I-94 updated at the US-Canada Detroit-Windsor tunnel doing flag post at Canadian border.

    I do not have a Canadian Visitor visa, I need to get new I-94 at US POE for my wife due to her passport renewal. Can I go to Canadian border make a U turn and go back to US. I am planning to go May 23rd, 2021. Will there be a problem with having a Canadian visa? I am bit nervous as I have never gone to a country border without visa.

    Reply
    • Pranav,
      You should call them and plan before you go. Things change all the time, above are good ones as reference, but you should call them to be sure.

      Reply
      • I called both sides and go mixed comments. Canadian side said I can come, they will anyways not allow to enter due to travel ban . US side said they won’t issue as technically you did not enter Canada. So thinking to try out.

        Reply
        • Pranav,
          If you have valid visa to re-enter US, worth a shot, but subject to the risk … Unfortunately, it is not black and white…

          Reply
          • Hi All,

            Would like to share my experience. My experience was same as Experience 3 above. Disappointed and returned empty handed from Detroit-Windsor tunnel.

            I did not had Canadian visa, but like other ppl who were able to get it successfully without having Canadian visa, I went to give a shot too. I spoke both sides, they said yes, but when I went there US POE did not issue it.

            The latest update is that the Detroit-Windsor US POE going forward will not issue I-94 if you are returning from Canada without having stamp in your passport for entry. Till then they won’t consider that you exited US. This changed was done recently itseems.

            Can. Some one tell me what are my other options?

  11. Hi everyone i have a problem I hope anyone here can help me. I got stuck here in usa, in 2020 because the pandemic i couldn’t go to mi country a caribbean island. I came here with mi husband I married with him an American citizen in 2018 in mi country . but we never did the papers until I got stuck here and mi visa expire since i couldn’t go out all airports were close. and due that we had to start the process of his petition for me. mi lawyer only applied for the petition but not for the change of the statues. he said office were close.. I think was a mistake because today is April 2021 AND still I haven’t received anything from them just the letter they sent me that the case was received in may 2020, so I crossed to the border with Canada we went to the garden in august 2020.. just to visit the Garde. i was no trying to apply for the extension.. I did not even know they have a border patrol there, but they stopped us there at the exit, and we had there like 1 hour talking to them.. a women was rude with me, the guy was nice then finally they extended mi visa when i explain what happed to me., and show I was under a process here. the agent told me that I could apply for more time if i didn’t get any news from mi process and the time would ended again . but i didn’t understood well what he meant, if he meant to go back to the border.. I called migration they all said i didn’t need an extension but “I do..” I want go to mi country for some months to see mi family I had more than 1 year i dont see them, also I would like to visit the Niagara falls, and that’s and international territory. so I need the visa, and this migration process right now is super slow .. I applied in February 15th this year, for a visa extension online, mi time ended February 16th.. I did it just 1 day before it ended because I didn’t know what to do. still they haven’t answer me, and I Desperate is been 2 months now. I really need go back mi country so I need this extension.. so the question is: is it good idea to go back the Border with Canada where I went before when they gave me the time for first time? I will go with mi husband and explain the situation again what do you think? do you think that it will go well? what are chances I have that all goes well even if i applied already online ? what do you think who can help me ? I Hope someone here can give me a accure opinion, I desperate and migration right now is super Slow the waiting is killing me…. thanks !

    Reply
  12. I am on H1b visa. I have a visa stamped and valid until Sept 2022 but my passport is going to expire on April 2021 so i got i94 up to April 2021. I just got my passport renewed so i am thinking to go US Canada Border – Ambassador Bridge. I have seen on above shared experiences, for i 94, do i have to have apply for i94 online and pay the fees online? Can i pay the fees at the border for I94? If i have to pay it online then do i need to use the new passport for i 94 application or i need to use old passport?
    One more thing; do i need to go CBP office during their office time or i can go anytime?

    Reply
  13. Hi Kumar,

    I lost my job on July 24. But i was able to get a new offer only by end of October. i got a I797B and my Attorney has advised me to go to Cancun and come back to update my I94 (My Visa is valid until December 2021 ) I have a pending B2 application. I live in Detroit. Can i go to the Canada through the Tunnel ( i don’t have a visitor visa ) and return back to USA and get the updated I94 ?

    Reply
    • AjayS,
      What status are you in US now ? B2 ? If so, it is not really updating I-94, it is for you to come back on H1B status. In such cases, you should fly out of the country. The option to go to border to update I-94 may not work.

      Reply
    • Hi Kumar,

      I am in a similar situation, My current H4 approval is pending. I have approved H1b I-797B (counselor) and valid H1b Stamp until September 2021. I wanted to know if you were able to exercise this option of activating your visa at the US- Canada Border?

      Thanks,

      Reply
  14. Hi All,

    I was able to extend I94 by crossing US border, particularly Seattle – Canada border at Peace Arch, Blaine WA
    Read above article

    Reply
    • I’m sharing my experience crossing the border to renew my I94 by car driving from upstate New York to Canada via the Lewinston – Queenston bridge border crossing on 29th Oct 2020. See above article.

      Reply
    • Hi All,

      Thank you for all the above information.
      Question – Any one of you got your i94 extended after it was expired ?
      My scenario – same boat as many, 797 valid until 2021 sept but passport expired sept 2020 so i94 had date of sept 2020. I noticed it today and want to see if I can go to Canada border and get i94 extended.
      Any help is much appreciated.

      Reply
    • Hi Dheeraj,
      I have my new passport with me. My i-94 gets expired Feb-2021. My visa is valid till Sept 2022. Do you think if i go this week they will extend my i-94 considering I still have 3 months left in the current i-94?

      Reply
  15. Thanks for sharing the above 3 experiences. I was able to renew my I-94 at the Windsor-Tunnel at the Canada border in US recently in Oct 2020. Read experience in above article.

    Reply
  16. Thank you Manish for quick reply. Only thing I am worried is Canada border closed. Somehow I also feel I may have best chance at west coast .

    I do have Canada visa so let me try to call them and see if that can help

    Reply
  17. Prasad,
    I think it is a good idea to try at peace bridge near Niagara falls, I believe that is land border near you (I’m on west coast, so not much aware of it). If the choice is between Texas Laredo or San Diego, I would suggest Otey Masa, San Diego as I could get it done there. Generally also, I would think west coast may have better chances on such matters.

    -Manish

    Reply
  18. How to deal the situation with I94,visa & passport expired but have valid i797?

    I recently travelled to India in Dec-2019 with active new i797 ,CBP stamped i94 with admit date as per my old i94(valid until feb 2020) but not provided i94 date neither based on passport expiry date(June-2020) nor based on new i-94 (valid until september 2022) at the port of entry.And my visa expiry date was Feb-2020 as i did not attend visa interview with new i797 (valid until september 2022).

    Actually,I traveled to get married and returned with my spouse(H4 Visa) and she got the correct i94 dates(valid until Sep 2022).

    I have sent my passport for renewal on July -2nd and I have just understood that the most recent i-94 determines the valid stay and i’m in a panic situation now…

    1)Can you please help me with the best solution to fix my i94 dates so that i will not lose my legal stay.

    2)Although my wife was provided with i94 dates by CBP as per my new i94(valid until Sep-2022).Does my i94 expiry issue impact her visa(H4-EAD) as well?If yes,can you please help me with the way to fix it.

    Reply
    • ss1122,
      Well, you are in really tricky situation, I would suggest you speak to an attorney immediately.
      Ideally, you could have got it fixed as an error if it was before June 2020. Now, you have passed that date too.
      Yes, your stay defines her stay, so may have impact as well…. Talk to an attorney.
      You maybe asked to exit the country to avoid these issues…unfortunately, you do not have visa, so cannot get it stamped until end of this year…So, it is tricky.
      Do update on how it goes for community benefit…

      Reply
        • ss1122,
          We not really have any recommendation, it is purely a matter of choice. You cannot go wrong working with popular firms like Murthy, Fragomen, RNLawgroup, etc.

          Reply
  19. Hi,
    My h1 is valid till August 2022, but my i94 was issued till July 2020 (based on my passport expiry date). I recently got a new passport & was looking to get the i94 extension.

    I went to the cbp office in Alexandria bay NY 2 weeks ago, and was told that their office lobby is closed due to covid. I was also told to go to Canada border, u-turn & try getting it from US side border officers. However, they refused saying it is “non urgent matter”.

    I called the same cbp office this afternoon & a really nice officer answered the phone. He told me that their office lobby is closed, but if I go to Canada border, u-turn & come back – then he will do it for me. I immediately left work, drove 3 hrs & did what he told me.

    He stamped my new passport, and stapled a paper I-94 (with validity till August 2022) in my new passport.

    However, I just checked online — when I put information of my new passport, it said “no records of this traveler found”. And, when I put info of my old passport – it shows all the info with I-94 valid till august 2022.

    Did the officer make an error? Should he have linked the updated I-94 to my new passport? What do I do now??

    Please guide as I am very anxious. Thanks

    Reply
    • Hi there,

      Has anyone else tried updating their i94 at the Alexandria Bay crossing?
      Wondering if anything has changed? If their office is now open or not?

      Thanks for your help.

      Kind Regards,

      Luke

      Reply
  20. Hi,

    I am in the same boat with i94 expiring in September 2020 and visa expiring in 2020. Has anyone tried this on any border crossing in Arizona? I live in Phoenix and thats the closest border I can drive to.
    If anybody can help with the location address for Arizona, it would really help.
    Also, I read it in a few comments above : Are the SENTRI enrollment centers also open now? If hats the case, I can also go there and try extending the i94 right?

    Reply
    • Shwetansh,
      The only way to know is call the SENTRI centers. Yes, some of them do as well. Make sure you call the locations near to you and then plan your travel to the CBP office.
      Do update how it goes here.

      Reply
      • Hi Everyone,

        I was able to update my i94 by driving to the US-Mexico border at the Nogales port of entry in Arizona, Just a quick note, there are 2 ports in Nogales, I went to the one on 210 N Mariposa Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621, which had really less crowd with only 2-3 pedestrians walking in 30 minutes.

        One quick question on the i94 though, Now my i94 shows that it has been updated to my visa end date until April 2022, but the i94 record still shows up with the old passport number. The online i94 also still shows the old passport number. Is that expected or do I need to contact them to still update that?

        Reply
        • I think this is fine. My i94 record is also updated with old Passport details.
          Officer stapled paper i94 to old passport that has valid visa.

          Reply
          • I just managed to update my i-94 at Otay Mesa without being asked to cross the border! Thanks to this website!

            My i-94 record is also linked to my expired passport with the valid visa and he stapled the paper i-94 to the old passport as well. If anyone has anything different please let us know if we should email them to correct.

            Thanks!

        • Shwetansh Gaur,
          Good to hear. Thanks for sharing.
          That is expected to show it as your visa is tied to the old passport number. Nothing to worry. Just keep all your documentation from your CBP visit to be safe.

          Reply
          • Hello all! I’m in the same boat with passport expiring on Nov-12-2020 with a valid H1 stamp. While filling i94 application online, it asks for how I travelled – through flight/sea/road. What do input here if none of them are required to visit SENTRI office (Laredo TX) as I am already in US?

            Also, one more question – with the new executive order in place, if the officer asks me to cross border, would they allow me back into US? I have a valid H1B stamped in passport that expires in Oct-2022.

  21. Hi,

    I am also in the same boat like everyone here and my i94 is going to expire in first week of Aug.
    Has anyone tried to extend i94 through USCIS OR discussed with your attorneys about it?
    Do you know which application to be filed for extension?

    I consulted my attorney and they said they will file i102. I read about it on USCIS website and nowhere it is mentioned that it could be used for i94 extension but in i129 section it is mentioned. My attorney is not ready to listen to what I read on the USCIS website and he is saying he has lot of experience in filing i129 and it cant be used for filing i94 extension . So I am little worried now.

    I stay in NC and I didn’t want to travel to Mexico or Canada border because of Covid 19. So I don’t want to take that option.

    Reply
  22. Hi Manish,
    Thanks for your detail information. I’m also in the same boat and did try Canada border but I ran out of luck since they mentioned that I-94 can’t be renewed without technically entering into Canada (Canada didn’t gave me entry due to non-essential travel). Currently planning to go to San Ysidro location. You mentioned that it’s open 24×7 and will it be the same scenario there too (giving I 94 updated). Is there any specific reason that you went to Otay Mesa than to San Ysidro.

    Also, checking here in the forum if someone has experience going to San Ysidro location

    Reply
    • Praveen,
      I went to Otey Mesa as I was able to get confirmation on phone from Otey Mesa CBP office first about extending i94. I did not get any proper answer from San Ysidro CBP office. My plan was to go to San Ysidro if Otey Mesa did not work (these office are close by).

      I purposely went on a week day and at the start of normal week day working hours, hoping better response than non working hours.

      I traveled as soon as I got confirmation from CBP by booking same evening flight tickets. We do not know when admin may decide to close some offices/process for any reason (like some local covid outbreak or general change in immigration policy). Also, did not want to wait close to expiry of i94 to have back up option in case i94 renewal at CBP doesn’t work.

      Not sure if any of that helped, but that was my thinking.
      Good luck.

      Reply
      • Hi Kumar,
        I haven’t yet visited Otay Mesa/San Ysirdo, still weighing on the options. Sure, I will update the group after that.

        Reply
    • Hi Manish,

      I have the same issue. I tried reaching to Otay Mesa CBP but i got an answer saying to look at the website. Can you please the mention the number you called. That would be of great help.

      Thanks,
      Naga

      Reply
      • Otay Mesa CBP number is (619) 690-7696.
        I took it from their website (https://www.cbp.gov/contact/ports/otay-mesa-california-2506)

        It will go to IVR. Listen for the options, and select appropriately. I think I selected option 4 or 5.

        Unless something has changed very recently, CBP Otay Mesa does process i94 extn, as I got it done last month. So, you can directly go to CBP even if you are not able to get info on phone.
        What matter more I think is if the officer whom you interact is willing to do or not. It seems there is not hard and fast rule and is individual officer’s discretion.
        I suggest, you go to Otay Mesa CBP even if you are not able to get phone confirmation, if it doesn’t work go to San Ysidro CBP office.

        SENTRI office in Otay Mesa and San Ysidro are also open now (they were closed due to covid). I’m told that SENTRI office also process i94 extn. You can call them as well (phone numbers is in the link).

        Reply
        • Thank you so much Manish for your reply.
          One final question, you have mentioned to fill the i-94 extension form before hand. I just what to know which one is that, are you talking about the i-539 form.

          Thanks again!!

          Reply
          • https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/apply-document

            That link has the form.
            Note: What I’ve mentioned above is just suggestion, based on my experience, it may or may not work for everyone.

  23. Hello All,
    First of all, thank you for posting their I-94 renewal process. Same situation with I-797 and visa stamp valid until July 2022 due to passport expiry I-94 shortened to July 2020. I got my new passport and I live at texas. Wondering anyone has successfully able to update I-94 at Laredo, Tx border crossing.

    Reply
    • RAM,
      so far, we have no experiences shared by users for Texas. Would be great, if you can try calling Laredo and explore it. Also, do update here for community benefit.

      Reply
    • Hi Ram,

      I’m in similar situation and planning to drive to Laredo border from Dallas . Were you able to update your i94 at Laredo border . Please share your experience if you did .

      Thanks and good luck.

      P.S I tried to meet with the CBP officer at DFW airport and the field office in Irving . Both declined to update i94 . They asked to contact the lawyer. They didn’t comment on border crossing and said ask your lawyer again.
      Lawyer suggested to fill out i539 but in my case that will only update my H4 and not my EAD. So will have to drive to border in any case and try my luck there.

      Reply
      • Hello Ankita,
        My employer filed for an H1-B extension which gives updated I-94 as part of the extension. The reason I chose not to travel because my employer immigration suggested that I don’t have any backup plan If I get stuck in Mexico. I have seen a couple of posts, people were able to get I94 updated successfully in Otay Mesa/San Ysidro and no one from this border.

        Reply
      • Ankita,
        yes, seems many were not lucky at airports in the past too. Do update once you have got your i-94 updated by driving to Laredo for community benefit. Good Luck !

        Reply
        • Hi Ankita,

          I also tried for my daughter’s I94 extension in DFW and go the same answer.
          Please let us know how it goes for you.
          Good Luck!

          Reply
      • Hi Ankita,

        I am also in same boat contacted CBP officer at DFW airport same answer, I am from Dallas planning to go to Laredo, TX this week.

        Thanks

        Reply
  24. Manish

    Thank you so much for your sharing.

    My question is do you have Mexico Visa?
    How do you get Mexico Visa in term of COVID-19?

    Best,
    ZZ

    Reply
    • ZZ,
      I do not have Mexico visa. I’m told that you can travel to Mexico on valid h1b visa (not sure though).

      My focus was to NOT cross the border. So, I went to US CBP office.
      Expectation (based on what I’ve read) was that the CBP officer will either just update my i94 or ask me to cross US border and take U turn on pedestrian bridge without having to cross Mexico border and update i94 on entry to border.

      Due to covid situation I did not expect Mexico to let me enter (even if it was allowd on h1b).
      I’ve no idea how to apply for Mexico visa.

      Thanks,
      Manish

      Reply
  25. Hello Everyone,

    I am on H1 B VISA and got stamped. My I 94 expiry date was till my passport expires. Now I got my passport renewed and my I 94 is going to expire tomorrow, i.e, 5/18.
    What is the best option to get my I 94 Renewal . I checked with CBP at Newark International Airport and they will only make the correction to I 94 and will not renew.

    Appropriate any help to get the best solution.

    Thanks and Regards,
    Irshad

    Reply
    • Irshad Ahmed,
      You should go to one of the CBP locations at the border and get it sorted out soon…above users experiences are some guidance for you on what you can try…Do update on your situation here for community benefit.

      Reply
  26. Hi Manish,
    Thanks for sharing your experience. When did you get your I-94 extended? I thought Otay Mesa CBP/Senti office is closed because of COVID.
    We have another complication that our Visa stamp is expired , so crossing border is little risky if they do not know the rule of allowing us in based on expired stamp but valid I797 and I94. So we wanted to go Otay Mesa sentri office and get the I94 updated, we called multiple times but no one picked and then read somewhere that they were closed until June 1. So wondering which office did you go and which office did you exactly go and what are their timings.

    Thanks a lot for your help!
    Best,
    Abhishek Jain

    Reply
    • Abhishek,
      You are right. I’ll also not suggest you to do what I did. I went to the port of entry (CBP office),
      Although the officer did not ask me to cross the border, on paper, I exited US border and entered again. I did that on 5/15.

      I think it is not possible in your case with expired visa. You may not be able to come back without valid visa.
      Sentri may be the right option. It is closed due to covid-19.
      I’m curious, if you got your i797 renewed, doesn’t it come with updated i94?

      Note: I’m not a lawyer, so pls. do not take my suggestion as final.

      Thanks,
      Manish

      Reply
      • Hi Manish,

        We went to Cancun last year when we had valid visa stamp and renewed i797 valid till 2022. Our passport were expring in June 2020 and because of that we got short validity i94.
        If you did not cross the border then having valid visa stamped or not should not matter.
        There is also a rule where with expired visa but valid i797 and I94 one is allowed to travel to Mexico and Canada for short stay(less than 30 days) and reenter the US. Below is the link, I was hoping is someone here have used this provision.

        https://help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-1218?language=en_US

        There is no clear date on which Sentri will open also I don’t know if one needs an appointment to visit Sentri or not or walk in are allowed. On their website it says that all the personal visits are suspended.

        Thanks again and appreciate you sharing all the details.

        -Abhishek

        Reply
    • Excellently researched options worked out. You have been kind to share it and saved many others from taking trouble to spend time and efforts. Thank u very much.

      Reply
    • Hi Manish,

      Thanks for sharing your experience. Hi , Me and my wife have i94 expiring in dec this year and h1b /and h4 visa valid till 2022. We both want to extend i94. I am planning to go to Otay Mesa CBP next week. I wanted to check couple of things with you before visiting

      1. Did you go to Otay Mesa CBP or Sentri Enrollment centre?
      2. Can you send me exact address where you went ?
      3. Is the Otay Mesa CBP open 24×7 or is it opened between 6am – 10pm all 7 days or only during weekdays ?
      4. What all documents you had to take ?
      5. If they ask to cross border, are h1b and h4 both allowed inside mexico without visa ?

      Kindly let me know. It will be really helpful as I need to go with wife and small kid.

      Reply
    • Hi Manish,

      Thanks for sharing your experience. Hi , Me and my wife have i94 expiring in dec this year and h1b /and h4 visa valid till 2022. We both want to extend i94. I am planning to go to Otay Mesa CBP next week. I wanted to check couple of things with you before visiting

      1. Did you go to Otay Mesa CBP or Sentri Enrollment centre?
      2. Can you send me exact address where you went ?
      3. Is the Otay Mesa CBP open 24×7 or is it opened between 6am – 10pm all 7 days or only during weekdays ?
      4. What all documents you had to take ?
      5. If they ask to cross border, are h1b and h4 both allowed inside mexico without visa ?
      6. Were you able to travel on flight while shelter-in-place order is there right ? I am in Bay area, CA and planning to go next week so want to confirm if there is any issue with respect to travel on planes.

      Also, any specific precautions to take regarding covid19 like masks, gloves, etc and other things and is there any checking done with that regards.

      Kindly let me know. It will be really helpful as I need to go with wife and small kid.

      Reply
      • DJ,
        1. Did you go to Otay Mesa CBP or Sentri Enrollment centre?
        [Manish]:Otay Mesa. Sentri center is closed due to covid-19.

        2. Can you send me exact address where you went ?
        [Manish]:So, Otay Mesa CBP and Sentri office are in same building. If you are using google maps, make sure it doesn’t take it across Mexico border. When I put Otay Mesa CBP address, it was taking me across the border and back to CBP office in US. So, put Sentri Otay Masa address (2500 Paseo Internacional, San Diego, CA 92154). Be careful while using google maps to not cross the border. (I’m not sure what happens if you do by mistake.)
        There is private parking lot near CBP office. I think it is called Plaza parking.

        3. Is the Otay Mesa CBP open 24×7 or is it opened between 6am – 10pm all 7 days or only during weekdays ?
        [Manish]:Only weekdays from 6am to 8pm. More details https://www.cbp.gov/contact/ports/otay-mesa-california-2506

        San Ysidro is available 24×7, all week. https://www.cbp.gov/contact/ports/san-ysidro-class
        4. What all documents you had to take ?
        [Manish]:Old and new passport. with valid visa, i797 and one more photo id (I used my California DL). Additionally I took other usual doc (latest pay stubs, petition etc) but nobody asked for it.

        5. If they ask to cross border, are h1b and h4 both allowed inside mexico without visa ?
        [Manish]:I would think so, but I’m not sure. Pls. check other sources to confirm.

        6. Were you able to travel on flight while shelter-in-place order is there right ? I am in Bay area, CA and planning to go next week so want to confirm if there is any issue with respect to travel on planes.
        [Manish]:I’m in Bay area as well. I took Alaska airline from SFO to San Diego and back. No issues.

        Also, any specific precautions to take regarding covid19 like masks, gloves, etc and other things and is there any checking done with that regards.
        [Manish]: Mouth covering is mandated by law during shelter in place at all public places. So pls. have mask/covering all the time.

        Good luck.

        Reply
          • Thanks Manish for the responses. I appreciate your response. It will be really helpful.

            Also, is it ok if we as a family of more than 2 ( 2 adults and kids) can travel in flight all together from Bay area to San Diego ? I just wanted to assess the risk on doing so in terms of Covid. Othewise was thinking of driving but that is also risky due to shelter-in-place.

            Regards,
            DJ

          • DJ,
            Drive or flight, it is a personal judgement call.

            I also considered driving to avoid enclosed space in air plane, but then driving would take atleast 10 hrs with many breaks in between (more with family) using lot of public shared spaces. That looked more risky.

            I was also worried if car break down happens in this almost 1000 mile journey it may be difficult to handle due to this lockdown.

            So, decided to take flight. Surprisingly, SFO and San Diego airport were completely deserted and Alaska airline purposely booked only half of the plan, so only one seat is used on each side. Basically there is 2 seat gap between all passengers . Overall I’m happy with the journey.

          • Hi Manish,
            I am on L1-A based out of Atlanta. Similar case my Visa approved till Aug 2021 but as passport was expiring in Dec my I-94 date is Dec-202. I just called CBP office and they mentioned me land border are closed and only Air travel allowed. but not sure as this is non essential travel if Air travel to Canada is allowed. I was thinking of going to peace bridge near Niagara falls and try my luck. Do you have any feedback on that. Other option is to Try Texas Laredo or San Diego . What do you suggest the best option would be?

          • Prasad,
            I think it is a good idea to try at peace bridge near Niagara falls, I believe that is land border near you (I’m on west coast, so not much aware of it). If the choice is between Texas Laredo or San Diego, I would suggest Otey Masa, San Diego as I could get it done there. Generally also, I would think west coast may have better chances on such matters.

            -Manish

        • Manish,
          Thanks for sharing all info. I have added all the above answers to your experience, so that it is clear for everyone.

          Reply

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