As you start getting ready for your trip to the U.S., there are a few things you should bear in mind to make your arrival in the U.S. as smooth as possible. First of all, you should use this packing list to make sure you don't forget any essential documents. All students should carry the items mentioned below in their hand luggage. Don't put them in your checked bags. You will need them upon checking in at the airport upon arrival in the U.S.:
- Valid passport
- Valid F-1 or J-1 visa
- Printed and signed I-20 or DS-2019;
- Proof of your financial support during your time in the U.S. (this is strongly recommended);
- Your I-901 SEVIS Fee receipt
- The address where you will be living when you arrive to Berkeley (temporary is OK)
Many times, the CBP officer at the airport will only ask for the first two documents, but it's important to also carry your I-901 SEVIS Fee receipt and your proof of financial support with you, just in case you're asked to provide them. If you need confirmation of your previous SEVIS fee payment, visit the SEVIS fee payment page and select the option to "Check I-901 Status/ Print Payment Confirmation".
After deboarding your plane, you will proceed to the CBP (Customs and Border Protection) immigration checkpoint. If you don't have a direct flight from your home country to San Francisco, you will pass through immigration at your first port of entry to the United States. The border protection officer will inspect your documents, take your photo, and take your fingerprints. This is a standard procedure and everyone entering the U.S. must comply with it.
The extent to which you will need to answer questions is at the discretion of the officer. While there's no reason to be stressed when presenting your documents, it's important to remember that the officer does have the authority to deny your admission. For that reason, you must not make false statements or purposefully omit information.
The officer may ask you questions about your reason for entering the U.S., your activities while in the U.S., your academic program, or where you will be staying. It is important to know the address of your accommodation, even if you're initially staying at a hotel or vacation rental. The primary purpose of your trip is to study full-time.
If you encounter any difficulties with your arrival, please notify ISS immediately