Visa Approved? Here’s What Happens Next

Hey there!

If your F-1 visa has been approved, congratulations! That stamp in your passport is more than just a document, it’s the start of an exciting new chapter in your life. Now comes the big question: what happens next?

We know these next few weeks can feel a little overwhelming. You’ve got flights to book, bags to pack, payments to make, and a dozen other questions racing through your mind. Don’t worry - you’re not alone, and we’ve got your back. This newsletter breaks it all down so you feel clear, confident, and ready to board that plane.

Need More In Depth Guidance? Talk to a Mentor 1:1

Figuring out your next steps after visa approval can be exciting - but also overwhelming. If you’d rather talk through your plans with someone who’s been in your shoes, we’ve got you covered.

Book a 30-minute 1:1 mentorship call with Amanda or Ansh, we’re here to make your transition smoother!

👉 Book a 1:1 Mentorship Call

When Should You Fly? And Where To?

Once your visa is approved, you’re officially allowed to enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date listed on your I-20. For most students, arriving 1 to 2 weeks before orientation is ideal. It gives you time to recover from jet lag, move in, get your phone and bank set up, and settle into your new environment before classes begin.

If you haven’t booked your flight yet, aim for a midweek date - Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be cheaper than weekends. Use tools like Google Flights or Hopper to track prices and get a good deal. Flying into a major international airport like New York (JFK), Chicago (ORD), or San Francisco (SFO) might give you more affordable and flexible options.

What Should You Pack?

Packing for the U.S. isn’t just about stuffing your bags with everything you own – it’s about knowing what you really need and what can wait until after you land.

Most international flights allow you to bring two checked bags (23 kg each) and one carry-on. In those bags, prioritize the essentials: prescription medications (in original packaging), personal care items, weather appropriate clothes, small snacks, spices or comfort foods from home, and electronics like adapters (U.S. uses 120V and Type A/B plugs).

Weigh your luggage before you arrive at the airport to ensure that you don’t end up having to throw anything away by the luggage check-in for being over the weight limit, or needing to pay extra. You can buy most other things - like bedding, cooking utensils, and dorm room supplies - after arrival. Just keep in mind: stores that sell international products tend to mark them up because of import costs. So, if there’s a specialty item you know you’ll miss (a favorite tea, skin care brand, or food), bring it with you if you can.

It’s also a good idea to pack one change of clothes, your important documents, chargers, and a few toiletries in your carry-on, just in case your luggage is delayed.

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Need a comprehensive packing list? We made one for you, listing out the travel documents, winter wear, toiletries, daily clothes, and dorm room essentials you might need.

Click here to access it.

Airport Arrival & Immigration: What to Expect

When you arrive in the U.S., your first stop will be at immigration, where a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will review your documents and ask a few questions. It’s nothing to stress over - this is standard for everyone entering the country.

Make sure these documents are easily accessible in your carry-on:

• Your passport with valid F-1 visa

• Your signed I-20 form

• Your SEVIS fee receipt (optional)

• Your university admission letter (optional)

• Proof of financial support, like bank statements or loan documents (optional)

The officer might ask questions like:
“What is your reason for visiting the U.S.?”
“What university will you attend?”
“What is your program's start date?”
“Where will you be staying?”

Just answer honestly and clearly. When and if everything checks out, your passport will be stamped, and you’ll be officially welcomed to the U.S.!

Not an incoming international student? Fill out this quick survey so we can send you tailored content based on where you’re at in your international student journey.

What If Your Luggage Goes Missing?

Don’t panic. Go straight to the airline’s baggage claim office at the airport. They’ll help you file a report and usually deliver the luggage to your address within a day or two. Keep your essentials in your carry-on just in case.

How Much Cash Should You Carry?

You don’t need to arrive with a lot of cash. We recommend bringing $500 - $1,000 in cash for basic expenses like food or transportation for your first few days. Carry small bills for convenience - $1s, $5s, $10s. Avoid carrying large sums - it’s safer and more convenient to open a U.S. bank account.

Our recommendation? Adro. With Adro, you can open a U.S. checking and credit account before you arrive. Their student-friendly debit and credit cards help you save on wire transfer fees and start building U.S. credit history right away.

👉 Sign up with Adro

Where Will You Be Living?

If you're moving into on-campus housing, make sure you’ve received a confirmation email with move-in dates and instructions. If you're renting off-campus, confirm your lease and communicate your arrival time with your landlord.

It’s also helpful to have a printed or digital copy of your housing address in case immigration officers ask where you’ll be staying.

What About Tuition Payments?

Most schools require tuition to be paid before or during orientation. Check your school’s student portal or contact the finance office to confirm deadlines.

Look into services like Flywire or your university’s preferred wire transfer method ahead of time - it can take a few days to process.

Get a U.S. Phone Number Before You Land

You’ll want to be connected as soon as you arrive - especially to let family know you’re safe or book a ride from the airport. US Mobile offers a super easy e-SIM setup, so you can get a U.S. number before you fly and activate it the moment you land.

👉 Get a US Mobile plan

Wrapping Up

This is an exciting time, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Take things one task at a time, and soon, you’ll be here starting your next chapter in the U.S. – ready, prepared, and confident.

Safe travels,
Team Roam 🧡