VISAS TO THE U.S.
When You Arrive in the U.S.
When you arrive in the U.S., you usually arrive at one of our many international airports. After your leave your flight, you will first be directed to a passport and visa inspection area. Immigration Officers will review your passport, visa, and I-94 arrival and departure card to verify you can be admitted to the U.S. The Immigration Officer will capture your photo and your fingerprints just like during the visa interview process. If you are approved, you will be told to go to the baggage and customs inspection areas. For detailed information on arriving in the U.S., please visit the following websites:
The Immigration Officer may also direct you to the secondary inspection area for further questions or if you must undergo special registration procedures as part of the National Security Entry/Exit Registration System (NSEERS). During secondary inspection, a second Immigration Officer will review your case, ask you several questions about your travel and background. For more information on the special registration program, please visit:
After you collect your baggage and are cleared through passport and visa inspection, you must clear any goods that you brought with you through the customs inspection area. For information on what goods you can and cannot bring into the country and the fees you may have to pay, please visit:
When you are ready to depart the U.S., you should plan additional time into your departure for airline check-in and security screening. For up-to-date information on prohibited items, personal preparation for screening and the screening process, please visit:
General Visa Information
Non-Immigrant Visas
How To Apply
What Happens Next
When You Arrive in the U.S.
