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Arriving in the U.S.

  • Prepare for Arrival

    We are thrilled about your participation in our J-1 Exchange Visitor program at Stony Brook University!  Listed below you will find guidance on scheduling your visa interview, arriving at the port of entry, meeting U.S. Department of State insurance requirements, orientation, check-in, and much more.

    International students seeking J-1  status may only request entry to the U.S. up to 30 days prior to, but no later than, the program start date indicated on their DS-2019.

    Before arriving to the U.S., there are a few things you should have in order.

    Review the VIS website
    Review your Form DS-2019
    Ensure your passport is valid
    Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee
    Review health insurance requirements
    Review your invitation letter
    Have copies of all important documents
    Get your J-1 visa

     

  • Arriving in the U.S.

    Individuals in J-1  status may only request entry to the U.S. up to 30 days prior to, but no later than, the program start date indicated on their DS-2019.

    You should be prepared to present documentation of your identity, purpose for traveling to the U.S., and ability to financially support yourself in the United States.

    Do not pack them into your luggage, as you will not be allowed to retrieve your luggage until you have gone through immigration.

    • Passport, valid for at least six months past your date of entry.
    • Valid U.S. visa (exceptions).
    • DS-2019 issued for your current SBU program.
    • SEVIS fee receipt.
    • Financial support documentation (e.g., bank statement, affidavit of support, scholarship letter required for DS-2019 issuance).
    • VIS phone number (631-632-4685).

    Additional documentation may be required—e.g., admission letter/exchange program acceptance letter, previous DS-2019 and transcript (transfer student), etc.


    Port of Entry Procedure

    The CBP official will review your documents and may ask you questions about the purpose of your travel to the United States. The CBP official will determine if you are admissible and, if so, may provide you with an admission stamp. Not all CBP officers issue admission stamps.

    • CBP will also create an electronic I-94 record of your arrival. Please access your electronic I-94 two days after entering the U.S. to confirm your entry was recorded properly.


    Other Considerations Upon Arrival
    • Report to your hosting department at SBU. Ask your department if you will have any orientations other than with VIS.
    • Do not apply for a driver's license or an SSN until after you have checked in with VIS. Your SEVIS record needs to be activated first.
  • Getting to Campus

    Getting to Campus

    There are a wide variety of ways to get to campus depending on where you are coming from. The John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is the major airport closest to campus. Airport information centers in baggage claim areas provide details on the various ground transportation options, which include:

    • Taxis: Available outside all terminals, except terminal 8.
    • Lyft/Uber: Follow signs for designated pickup areas.
    • Long Island Railroad (LIRR).
    Public transportation from JFK
    Airport shuttle service from JFK
    Public transportation from New York City (NYC)
    Public transportation from Newark Airport (EWR)
    Car service