Canadians in the USA: I-94 Expiry

My TN Visa was issued for 3 year duration and was due to expire in 2012. My passport, however was due to expire in May 2010. When I left Canada last time US Customs wrote on my TN Visa in my passport that it expires on the same date as my passport. I have since renewed my Canadian passport.

My questions are -
1. Do I have to take a trip to Canada and when I return to the US get an extension on the visa?

2. Will US Customs at the Canada/US border give me the remaining time back by issuing a new TN Visa (white card)

2. Do I have to take this trip before May 2010, or will the remaining time to 2012 be given back to me automatically?

3. Last, can I not get this extension simply by going to the Miami airport without leaving the US?

Violeta

1. at some point, yes. Even though they werewrong to deny you full 3-year, you entered with a date on your I-94 which must be respected.
2. Only if you show them your original paperwork and explain what happened.
3. Before expiration of your I-94. That is your only legal permission to work.
4. No. you must enter US. You can go on a one-day cruise if you wish, but you need to leave US to re-enter.

Can you clarify for me if I must go back to Canada or if I can take a one day cruise to say Bahamas from Miami. Do you mean that I will get my visa renewed at US Customs even though I am not crossing the Canada/US border?
Thank you for your help.
Violeta

Do you mean that I will get my visa renewed at US Customs even though I am not crossing the Canada/US border?

Of course. There is no requirement that you be entering "from canada" to get TN.

Hello, thank you very much for your advice. I was able to take a one day cruise to Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale. When I returned I presented my sponsorship letter, expired passport, and old TN Visa white card. They issued a new one to me on the spot. They accepted a personal cheque for payment for $50. They could not give me a receipt for the cheque however they sent it to me via mail within a few days. I am quite relieved this is all behind me now.
All the best,
Violeta