What to Expect at the Port of Entry

Upon arrival at the U.S. border, all individuals must pass through Customs and Immigration inspection. During this inspection, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Officers determine whether or not an individual will be admitted into the U.S. in the status sought.

Documents to present:

• Valid Passport with valid visa
• any other documentation needed to show eligiblity for the status desired
  • F-1 students: Form I-20
  • J-1 students or exchange visitors: Form DS-2019
  • H-1B employees: I-797 approval notice

Completing Customs and Immigration Forms at the Border

• USCBP brochure on Travel Entry Forms
• USCBP Informaton for students and exchange visitors on what to expect at the port of entry

Correcting Errors Made on I-94 or in Customs Border Patrol Database at Time of Entry

Somtimes, mistakes are made at the time a foreign national enteres the U.S. whether on the I-94 itself or in the transcription of I-94 information into a database. For errors that occur at the time of entry, the foreign national should work with the Customs and Border Patrol officers at a Deferred Inspection Office.