Travel to US virgin islands?

Question

Hi ... i am looking for some information whether non-US citizens have to pass port of entry while returning to US mainland (eg NY or Chicago or any othet US states) from ST.Thomas, US virgin island. Also if the I-94 will be retained by the officials while leaving US mainland and a new I-94 be issued while returning. It would be great if u can give me any input related to the topic.

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Here's the problem:  the airline employees think they are supposed to retain your i94 anytime you fly.  That's not the case... What we do when we travel is we hide the i94 from the airline employee (in our pocket).  The only time you are supposed to turn in an i94 is when you leave NORTH AMERICA for more than 30 days.  However, very few airline employees know the rules.. they simply pull your i94 because they see it.  We've actually had to get into arguments with airline employees when going across borders US/Canada.. they always love to keep the i94.   Don't let anyone have your i94 until you are ready to leave the US for at least 30 days or more.  If you keep the i94 in your passport, they don't bother you because the immigration employee knows if there is some mistake it's not his butt who approved the i94.. so they don't care.  However, if the immigration official has to approve a NEW i94 they can be nasty... it's better to hold onto that i94 as long as possible, and only turn it in when you know you are really leaving the US for a month or more.   When going from USVI to mainland, hide the i94 from the employees (it's really none of their business anyways) and put it back into your passport when you are in line to see the immigration officer in the mainland.   Remember: keeping the i94 makes your entry much easier.. getting a new i94 can be a pain in the butt.

Answer 2

Your port of entry is St Thomas (US territory) You have to show your I-94. Citizens of other countries should carry whatever the US Travel regulations request. Where no visa is necessary have your passport and the green I-94. If a visa is required then bring the white I-94 and your passport.

Traveling to US territories is like traveling within the mainland. I don't think you have to leave your I-94 with the officials.

Good Luck)