What documents should I carry when I travel to the U.S. for the first time as an international student or scholar?
FAQ.
Answered by Jennifer Glass, Immigration Coordinator at the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
What documents should I carry when I travel to the U.S. for the first time as an international student or scholar?
Carry your passport, valid F-1/J-1 visa, and initial I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) in your hand luggage, not checked bags, to present at the Port of Entry.
Always needed
Unexpired passport (valid for at least 6 months into the future)
Unexpired F-1 or J-1 visa stamp (see exceptions); students, note that for your first entry to the U.S., the school listed on your visa stamp must match the school you will be attending. If you change your mind about schools after having received your visa, you will need to change your visa accordingly.
Current I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) - note that for future trips you take outside the U.S., you will need to secure a valid travel signature from your DSO or ARO before travel abroad (printed, not digital copy)
You may also be asked for
Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letters)
Academic records (enrollment verification or transcript)
Visa exceptions
Citizens of Canada and Bermuda don't need a visa — present a valid passport and endorsed I-20/DS-2019.
Tip: Make photocopies or secure digital copies of all documents and leave them with someone you trust, in case the originals are lost or stolen.
References: DHS Study in the States Travel Guidance; 8 CFR 214.1; 22 CFR 41.112(d)
