Plan Your Arrival
- You may be refused entry into the United States if you attempt to arrive more than 30 days before the program start date listed on your SEVIS I-20 form;
- Always Hand-Carry Your Documents;
- Do not check the following documents in your baggage. If your baggage is lost or delayed, you will be unable to present the documents at your port of entry. As a result, you may not be able to enter the United States;
- Your passport, valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected stay; and
- Form I-20.
In addition, it is strongly recommended that you also hand carry the following documentation:
- Evidence of financial resources;
- Evidence of student status, such as recent tuition receipts and transcripts;
- Paper receipt for the SEVIS fee, Form I-797; and
- Name and contact information for your "Designated School Official", including a 24-hour emergency contact number at the school.
Complete Your Entry Paperwork
If Arriving By Air: Flight attendants will distribute Customs Declaration Forms (CF-6059) and Arrival/Departure Record Forms (I-94). These must be completed prior to landing.
If Arriving By Land or Sea: The CBP Officer at the port of entry will provide the necessary Customs Declaration Forms (CF-6059) and Arrival/Departure Record Forms (I-94) to be filled out upon your arrival.
As You Arrive at the Port of Entry
Proceed to the terminal area for arriving passengers. Have the following documents available for presentation:
- Your passport;
- Form I-20;
- Arrival/Departure Record Form (I-94); and
- Customs Declaration Form (CF-6059).
The Form I-94 should reflect the address where you will reside, not the address of the school or program.
All visitors entering the United States must state their reason for wishing to enter the country. You will also be asked to provide information about your final destination. It is important that you tell the CBP Officer that you will be a student. Be prepared to include the name and address of the school program where you will enroll/participate.
Once your inspection is successfully completed, the inspecting officer will:
- Stamp your SEVIS Form for duration of status (“D/S”) for F visa holders
- Stamp your SEVIS Form for 30 days beyond program end date for M visa holders
- Stamp the Arrival/Departure Record Form (I-94) and staple it in the passport
Following Admission Into the United States
Students should report to their school within 30 days of the date that appears on the Form I-20 to register for courses or to validate their intended participation. Failure to do so may result in serious consequences.