I-94 when leaving U.S.

[anxicious waiter]

Can anyone advise about my question on I-94 when leaving U.S.?
The I-94 when I entered U.S. last time (4 years ago) was expired. Now I'm on H1B status (haven't got H1B stamp). When I leave U.S., do I have to submit the new I-94 from I-797 approval notice? Can I just return the expired old I-94 and still keep the new I-94 at the original I-797 approval notice? How important is this I-94 departure record? Please advise. Thanks!

 

[nkm-oct23]

Originally posted by anxicious waiter
Can anyone advise about my question on I-94 when leaving U.S.?
The I-94 when I entered U.S. last time (4 years ago) was expired. Now I'm on H1B status (haven't got H1B stamp). When I leave U.S., do I have to submit the new I-94 from I-797 approval notice? Can I just return the expired old I-94 and still keep the new I-94 at the original I-797 approval notice? How important is this I-94 departure record? Please advise. Thanks!

You need to return all the I-94s including the latest I-94 attached to the I-797 when you depart. It is also a good idea to keep copies of all your I-94's to prove legal status.