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Passport

Immigration regulations state that you are responsible for keeping your passport valid at all times during your stay here. Your passport can be revalidated or renewed through your embassy or consulate.

Visa

The visa is a stamped (or pasted-in) endorsement made in the passport by a US consulate or embassy official outside the US. It indicates that all requirements have been met for entry into the US. The number of entries allowed within a specified period is indicated on the visa stamp and can vary from country to country. A valid visa is essential for entering and reentering the US. However, the visa does not determine the length of time you may remain in the US. Canadian citizens are not required to obtain a visa to enter the US.

I-94 Departure Record

This small white card is usually stapled to the visa page in your passport by an immigration inspector when you enter the US. It records the length of your authorized stay in the US. The I-94, not the visa stamp, is the record of your permission to remain here. For F-1 and J-1 visa holders, the I-94 is usually marked "D/S" or "Duration of Status" meaning you have permission to remain in the US for the length of your program stated on your I-20 or DS-2019 as long as you are fully engaged in it.

I-20 (F-1/F-2 visa holders only)

This form (see sample) is used when applying for an F entry visa stamp at a US consulate or embassy and is used at the time of entry to the US. Upon arrival to the US an immigration officer will stamp the I-20 and return it to you. It indicates the length of your authorized stay in the US and should be kept with your passport and I-94 card. You must keep the original I-20, and any additional I-20 forms that are issued to you. The ISSS staff will note any validation for reentry, transfer of schools, or endorsement to work on your I-20.

DS-2019 (J-1/J-2 visa holders only)

This form (see sample) is used when applying for a J entry visa stamp at a US consulate or embassy and is used at the time of entry to the US. Upon arrival to the US an immigration officer will stamp the DS-2019 and returned it to you. It indicates the length of your authorized stay in the US and should be kept with your passport and I-94 card.