I-94 for Canadians: do you need one?

Updated October 6, 2026 · Border and immigration · By the Escale Floride editorial team (how we work)

Miami seen from Miami Beach · public domain photo

Short answer If you fly, your I-94 is created automatically. If you drive, you usually don't get one unless you ask (US$30). You need an I-94 if you stay 30 days or more without NEXUS. For a Florida driver licence, many offices ask for one too.

What is an I-94?

The I-94 is the US arrival and departure record, managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It shows your entry date, your status (visitor) and the date you must leave. It's electronic: you can look it up and print it on CBP's official website.

When do Canadians need one?

Your situation	I-94 needed?
Arriving by plane	You already have one: it's created automatically
Under 30 days, by car	No
30 days or more by car, with NEXUS	Not for registration: NEXUS counts as registration under the June 2026 final rule (DHS final rule, June 2026)
30 days or more by car, without NEXUS	Yes, or file Form G-325R online (free)
Florida driver licence	Your Canadian passport is the main ID, but many offices also ask for an I-94: bring one and confirm with the county office

How to get one by car

Before you leave: apply for a provisional I-94 on CBP's I-94 website or mobile app, up to 7 days before crossing. The fee is US$30 since September 30, 2025 (it used to be $6). You must then cross at a land border within 7 days.
At the border: use a regular lane and tell the officer you want your I-94. NEXUS lanes usually don't issue one.
Afterwards: check it on CBP's site ("Get Most Recent I-94") and print it.

What if you fly?

If you fly, your I-94 is created automatically when you arrive. You don't need to ask for anything: look it up and print it on CBP's site a few days after you land.

The I-94 and 30-day registration

Since April 11, 2025, anyone 14 or older staying in the US for 30 days or more must be registered. The rule became permanent on June 29, 2026. An I-94 counts as registration, and so do NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST and Global Entry. Otherwise, file Form G-325R online through myUSCIS: it's free, and Canadians don't give fingerprints. Parents register children under 14. Carry your proof with you.

Key takeaways

By plane: your I-94 is automatic.
By car, under 30 days: nothing to do.
By car, 30 days or more: NEXUS, an I-94 (US$30) or free Form G-325R.
Florida licence: passport, plus an I-94 if possible (often requested).

Leave without forgetting anything

The complete checklist: more than 65 items to tick off, from 2 months before you leave until you're back. 6-page PDF, 2026 rules.

See the checklist ($9)

Official sources

General information only, not legal advice. US entry rules change: always check with CBP before you go.