The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued important reminders to assist international students and exchange visitors expected to arrive in the United States.

These reminders for international students and exchange visitors registered in the Student Exchange and Visitor Information System (SEVIS) are intended to ensure that legitimate students and exchange visitors are quickly processed at ports of entry. A comprehensive list of answers to frequently asked SEVIS questions has also been posted online at www.ice.gov and www.cbp.gov.

DHS offers the following recommendations for international students and exchange
visitors:

1. Hand carry (do not check) the following documents:

• Your passport;

• Your SEVIS form I-20 or DS-2019;

• Evidence of financial resources;

• Evidence of student or exchange visitor status, such as tuition receipts, transcripts or letter of acceptance;

• Paper receipt for the SEVIS fee; and

• The name and contact information of your designated school official or sponsor.

Important Note: If you are a new international student or a new exchange visitor participant, remember to carry with you the sealed envelope given to you by the U.S. Department of State's Consular Officer and attached to your passport. It is important that you do not open this envelope

2. Inform the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer at the port of entry as soon as possible that you will be a new or returning international student or exchange visitor in the United States.

3. Report to your school or program upon arrival so that your school official can validate your participation in SEVIS.

4. Maintain contact with your designated school or sponsor official throughout your stay to ensure your SEVIS data is updated and accurate.

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