Complete Entry Paperwork
In order to streamline passenger processing, U. S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has automated its arrival and departure process and eliminating the paper Form I-94 for air and sea travelers. You will be able to obtain your admission number and electronic I-94 record through the websitehttps://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/. Different versions of Form I-94 might still be issued by Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agencies. If you are traveling by air, flight attendants should hand you a U.S. Customs Declaration Form (CF-6059). If you are arriving by land or sea, the immigration officer will provide you with the CF-6059 at the port of entry.
Port of Entry
Proceed to the Custom and Borders Inspection site near the terminal area. Be prepared to present your passport, I-20, and the CF-6059.
You will have to state your reason for entering the United States. You should tell the Customs and Borders Protection (CBP) officer that you will be a student. Be prepared to provide university address and additional information such as financial documents or your admission letter. Do not leave without getting your passport stamped, “F/1 D/S”
Secondary Inspection
If the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer cannot verify your information or if you do not have all of the required documentation, you may be directed to what is known assecondary inspection. The CBP officer will first try to check your status by using SEVIS. If the CBP officer needs to verify information with your school or program, please call (703) 993-2970.
If you fail to provide required documentation, the CBP official may give you aform I-515Awhich authorizes temporary admission into the United States. If you receive an I-515A, come directly to OIPS and speak with an advisor.
