Legal definition of Arrival Date

The “arrival date” in immigration refers to the date of last arrival in a country, indicating when a person most recently entered. Typically, the arrival date is recorded in entry/exit documents such as visa stamps, boarding passes, immigration cards, or status documents. It can then be found in official documents issued by immigration authorities or relevant government agencies.

The arrival date serves as a crucial marker for immigration services. It facilitates the calculation of the duration of authorized stay or residence for a foreigner. It is also necessary for visa renewal applications, permanent residence requests, and other social rights.

In the United States, the “arrival date” is recorded on Form I-94, issued at the point of entry by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) services. This arrival/departure record contains all relevant information regarding a person’s entry and exit from U.S. territory, including the arrival date, immigration status, and authorized duration of stay.

Etymology of Arrival Date

The term “arrival date” originates from “arrival,” an old Anglo-French word meaning “to arrive on land,” and “Date,” which refers to a defined period of time, a season, or an epoch. Combined, these two words are used in immigration law to designate the specific moment when an individual enters a country’s territory.