Visa Validity and Length of Stay Permitted in the U.S.

There is a difference between the visa expiration date and the length of time permitted in the U.S.  Your visa may be valid for several years, yet authorized period of stay may be limited to a few weeks.

The visa expiration date is shown on the visa.  Visas can be issued for any number of entries, from as little as one entry to an unlimited number of entries, for the same purpose of travel.  Unless previously canceled, a visa is valid until its expiration date. 

Upon entering the U.S., an immigration officer will determine if you are allowed entry and your authorized length of stay.  The authorized length of stay will be noted on your Arrival-Departure Record, Form I-94.  In some cases, you will be authorized to stay in the U.S. so long as you maintain a specified status, such as by being a full-time student.  You must depart the U.S. before the end of your permitted period of stay.  Failure to depart before the end of your permitted period of stay is a violation of U.S. immigration law.

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