Arrive in Seattle

With your F-1 visa, you are allowed to enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the program start date listed on your SEVIS I-20 form. Upon entering the country, you will need to provide your passport (valid for at least six months from the date of entry), F-1 visa, and the same I-20 form you used to apply for your visa. Additionally, it is strongly recommended to hand carry evidence of financial resources, evidence of student status (tuition receipts, acceptance letters, class schedule, etc.), and a paper receipt for the SEVIS fee, Form I-797. To review more detailed information on the documents necessary for entry into the U.S., review our PDF handout.

U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (USCBP) inspects all travelers coming into the United States. Be prepared to provide the officer with your passport and I-20 form, as well as your bank statement if it is requested. If the officer doesn't find any issues when reviewing your documents, they will return them to you and issue a Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.

Airport Pick-Up

For students who arranged a host family or an off-campus apartment through one of the homestay agencies, airport pick-up is generally included as part of the service and you will be met at the airport by the agency or host parents. Be sure to keep in touch with your homestay agency regarding flight arrival information.

For students making their own housing arrangements, Intercultural Homestays & Services and The PLACE - Seattle both offer airport pick-up services. For information on cost, restrictions, etc., please contact the homestay agencies directly.

Airport Transportation

If you would like to find your own transportation from the airport, explore the options below.