I have a US student visa (M-type) with an I-20. I am traveling from India to the USA. My institute is in California, but I would like to book a flight from India to Nevada, Las Vegas. Would immigration be a problem?
If you have a valid US student visa (M-type) and an I-20 issued by an institute in California, it is generally expected that you would initially enter the United States through a port of entry in California or a nearby state. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind if you plan to fly to Nevada, specifically Las Vegas, instead of directly to California:
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First Port of Entry: When you arrive in the United States from India, you will need to go through the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) process at your first port of entry. In your case, if you fly directly to Las Vegas, McCarran International Airport (LAS) would be your first port of entry. You should be prepared to explain to the CBP officer that you are a student with a valid M-type visa and an I-20 from a California institute. Make sure to have all your immigration documents, including your I-20 and passport, readily available for inspection.
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Transportation to California: After entering the US through Las Vegas, you would need to arrange transportation to your institute in California. This could be by bus, train, or domestic flight. You should have a plan in place for how you will reach your intended destination in California.
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Address and Intent: Be prepared to explain to immigration officials that your ultimate destination is your institute in California, and you have a legitimate reason for entering the United States as a student. It's important to be clear about your intentions and have documentation, such as your I-20, that shows your commitment to your studies in California.
While it is not common for international students to enter the US at a location far from their institute's location, it is not impossible if you have a valid visa and can explain your situation to immigration officials. However, immigration officers will want to ensure that you have a legitimate reason for entering the US and that you have a plan to reach your institute in California. It's essential to be honest, prepared, and have all the required documentation to support your case.
Keep in mind that immigration policies and procedures can change, so it's advisable to check with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or the U.S. embassy or consulate in India for the most up-to-date information and guidance on your specific situation before your travel.
In general, you should not have any problems with immigration when entering the United States, even if you are flying into a different state than your school is located in. As long as you have a valid M-1 visa and your I-20 form, you will be allowed to enter the country. However, it is important to be aware of the following:
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- You must inform your designated school official (DSO) of your travel plans as soon as possible. The DSO will update your SEVIS record to reflect your new location.
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- You must carry your I-20 form with you at all times when you are traveling in the United States.
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- You may be asked to provide additional documentation to immigration officials, such as proof of enrollment at your school or proof of financial support.
It is also a good idea to print out a copy of your travel itinerary and keep it with you. This will show immigration officials that you are planning to return to your school after your trip.
