What does 'Class of Admission' on the I-94 mean?
Class of Admission is the nonimmigrant category CBP assigned at entry — B1, B2, F1, H1B, L1, L2, O1, TN, etc. It controls what you may do and how you must maintain status.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-06
Class of Admission is the short nonimmigrant code on your I-94 (B2, F1, H1B, L2, J1, TN, ...). It controls allowed activities, how long you may stay, and the available extension / change-of-status paths.
Why it's worth checking after entry
CBP has final discretion at the port. Occasionally the COA differs from the visa category (for example, a B-1/B-2 traveler admitted as B-2 only). Confirm on the I-94 within a day or two of entry.
Common codes
- B1 / B2 — business / tourism, short stay.
- F1 / F2 — academic students and dependents (D/S).
- J1 / J2 — exchange visitors (D/S).
- H1B / H4 — specialty occupation worker and dependents.
- L1 / L2 — intracompany transferee and dependents.
- O1 / O2 — extraordinary ability.
- TN — USMCA professional.
This site provides general information only.
Frequently asked (FAQ)
Is it always the same as my visa category?
Usually, but not always. CBP has discretion at entry — verify the I-94 after admission.
Is it the same as the visa stamp text?
Often close, but the formats differ. The I-94 uses short codes like B2, F1, H1B.
What if CBP put the wrong COA on my I-94?
Contact Deferred Inspection at your port of entry to seek a correction.
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This site provides general information only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Consult a qualified U.S. immigration attorney about your case. i-94.org is independent and is not affiliated with DHS, CBP, USCIS, ICE, or any government agency. Actual I-94 lookup and reminder tools are provided by i94.io.