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;
• SEVIS 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 acceptance letter, recent tuition receipts and/or transcripts
• Paper receipt for the SEVIS fee, Form I-797
• Name and contact information for your Designated School Official (DSO). For comprehensive information on procedures for traveling and arriving in the United States, visit Study in the States.

COMPLETE YOUR ENTRY PAPERWORK

If Arriving By Air: Flight attendants will distribute Customs Declaration Form (CF-6059). This must be completed prior to landing.

If Arriving By Land or Sea: The CBP Officer at the port of entry will provide the Customs Declaration Form (CF-6059) 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; SEVIS Form (I-20); and Customs Declaration Form (CF-6059).

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 passport for duration of status ("D/S").

FOLLOWING ADMISSION INTO THE UNITED STATES

Students should report to their school within 30 days of the date that appears on the SEVIS I-20 form to register for courses or to validate their intended participation. Failure to do so may result in serious consequences.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

SECONDARY INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS

If the CBP officer at the port of entry cannot initially verify your information or you do not have all of the required documentation, you may be directed to an interview area known as "secondary inspection." Secondary inspection allows inspectors to conduct additional research in order to verify information without causing delays for other arriving passengers.

The inspector will first attempt to verify your status by using the Student and Exchange and Visitor Information System (SEVIS). In the event that the CBP Officer needs to verify information with your school or program, we strongly recommend that you have the name and telephone number of the DSO at your school. In the event you arrive during non-business hours (evening, weekends, holidays), you can call 843-574-6053. 

Failure to comply with U.S. government entry-exit procedures may result in your being denied entry to the United States. Under certain circumstances, the CBP officer may issue a "Notice to Student or Exchange Visitor" Form (I-515A), which authorizes temporary admission into the United States. Work with your school to submit the proper documentation without delay.