Arrival at U.S. Airport

(for non-U.S. citizens only)

When you first arrive in the U.S. from your international flight, you will be directed to the nearest Customs/USCIS station for review and processing of your documents. If your flight stops at another U.S. airport before continuing on to New York, or if you must take a connecting flight to continue to New York, you may be required to follow the U.S. Customs/USCIS procedure upon your first landing in the United States.

At the Customs/USCIS station, a U.S. immigration official will examine your documents (do not pack your financial documentation in your suitcase), perhaps ask a few questions about the reason for your coming to the United States, stamp your SEVIS I-20, and issue you an Arrival/Departure permit (Form I-94). The I-94 is your most important immigration document, as it establishes your immigration status in the United States. Please make sure the immigration official notes the correct immigration status on your I-94 card and stamps your I-20 in blue or red ink. (This process might have changed due to the newly instituted SEVIS Database.) The I-94 is a U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service form that indicates the purpose of your admission to the United States and the length of time you may remain in this country. Everyone entering the United States receives an I-94. A very important form, the I-94 is very difficult to replace, so keep your document in a safe place, along with your passport and I-20 form.

The SEVIS-issued I-20 is the permanent record of your activities as a student in the United States. Your original one should be retained, even if you are later issued a new one.

TRAVEL ADVISORY TO ALL PASSENGERS:

Please do not run on the platforms or concourses. If you are carrying a rucksack or backpack, wearing a big coat or look a bit foreign, you may be stopped by officials and questioned. It is also important to safeguard your possessions. Do not hold packages or luggage for anyone. Do not pack razors, scissors or other sharp instruments in your carry on luggage, attaché case or handbag. Lighters and other items mentioned above may also be confiscated if found by the security screeners. This notice is for your own safety.

If you experience any difficulty at your port of entry, please call Westlands emergency desk at (914) 395-2209 or (914) 395-2222. The security officer will contact the DSO to advise of the difficulties you may be encountering. It is important for you to speak clearly, giving all necessary details, as well as your contact information where you can be reached.