Before coming to the U.S., it is essential that you complete some steps and plan to ensure that there are no issues once you're en route or at the border. It is essential that you communicate closely with the Office of International Studies (OIS) regularly regarding any changes to your travel plans.

PLAN YOUR ARRIVAL

Suggested Packing List

AIRPORT PICKUP SERVICES

photos of Billings Logan International Airport

The Office of International Studies offers FREE airport pickup service for all students who inform us of their arrival 1 week in advance. To sign up for this service, indicate your arrival information in the online confirmation form AND upload a copy of your flight itinerary.

Please be aware that we may not be able to accommodate airport pickup between the hours of 23:00 – 7:00. If you plan to arrive within that timeframe, please coordinate your own travel from the airport to the dormitories.

ENROUTE TO THE U.S.

ALWAYS HAND-CARRY YOUR IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

Do not check the following documents in your baggage. If your baggage is lost or delayed, you will be unable to present the documents at your port of entry. As a result, you may not be able to enter the United States

  1. Your passport, valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected stay
  2. SEVIS Form I-20 (DS-2019 for J-1 students)
  3. Negative COVID-19 PCR Test, taken within 3 days prior to travel


In addition, it is strongly recommended that you also hand carry the following documentation:

  1. Evidence of financial resources
  2. Evidence of student status, such as recent tuition receipts and transcripts
  3. Paper receipt for the SEVIS fee, Form I-797
  4. Name and contact information for your “Designated School Official”, including a 24-hour emergency contact number at the school.


Review comprehensive information on procedures for traveling and arriving in the United States.

Learn more about attending an Education USA Pre-Departure Orientation to better prepare for your journey to the U.S.

COMPLETE YOUR ENTRY PAPERWORK

If arriving by air, flight attendants will distribute Customs Declaration Forms. These must be completed prior to landing.

U.S. PORT OF ENTRY: IMMIGRATION & CUSTOMS CONTROL

Proceed to the terminal area for arriving passengers. Have the following documents available for presentation:

  • Passport, with valid visa
  • Immigration Form I-20 (F-1 students), or DS-2019 (J-1 Students/Scholars)
  • I-901 SEVIS fee payment receipt
  • Proof of COVID-19 vaccination from CDC-approved vaccination list
  • Customs Declaration Form (provided by airline)
  • Admission letter - advised
  • OIS contact information (Whatsapp, email, phone) - advised

All visitors entering the United States must state their reason for wishing to enter the country. A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer is the first U.S. official you will encounter when arriving at a port of entry. The work of CBP is mandated with ensuring the physical and economic security of the United States. You will also be asked to provide information about your final destination. It is important that you tell the CBP Officer that you will be a student at Montana State University Billings, located in Billings, MT.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT WHEN I ARRIVE AT A PORT OF ENTRY?

At a primary inspection booth, a CBP officer will ask you questions to verify your documentations, examine your luggage and determine whether to admit you into the United States. Some of the questions a CBP officer may ask include the following:

  • The purpose of your visit to the United States
  • How long you plan to visit
  • Where you will be staying
  • If you have the means to support yourself financially in the United States
  • If the documents you present match the purpose and intent of your visit

Once your inspection is successfully completed, the inspecting officer will:

  • Stamp your SEVIS Form for duration of status (“D/S”) for F or J visa holders
  • Stamp your SEVIS Form for 30 days beyond program end date for M visa holders

FOLLOWING ADMISSION INTO THE UNITED STATES

Students should report to MSUB within 30 days of the date that appears on the SEVIS immigration form to register for courses or to validate their intended participation. Failure to do so may result in serious consequences.

SECONDARY INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS

If the CBP officer at the port of entry cannot initially verify your information or you do not have all of the required documentation, you may be directed to an interview area known as “secondary inspection.” Secondary inspection allows inspectors to conduct additional research in order to verify information without causing delays for other arriving passengers.

The inspector will first attempt to verify your status by using the Student and Exchange and Visitor Information System (SEVIS). In the event that the CBP Officer needs to verify information with your school or program, we strongly recommend that you have the name and telephone number of the foreign student advisor at your school. In the event you arrive during non-business hours (evening, weekends, holidays), you should also have an emergency or non-business hour phone number available for this official.

Failure to comply with U.S. government entry-exit procedures may result in your being denied entry to the United States. Under certain circumstances, the CBP officer may issue a “Notice to Student or Exchange Visitor” Form (I-515A), which authorizes temporary admission into the United States. Work with your school to submit the proper documentation without delay.

NATIONAL SECURITY ENTRY-EXIT REGISTRATION SYSTEM (NSEERS)

Some individuals may be asked to provide additional information under the National Security Entry-Exit Registration System (NSEERS). A packet of information will be available at the port of entry explaining the registration procedure.

For more information regarding how to navigate the U.S. Immigration System, please visit U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Website