Arriving at the U.S. port of entry

If you have been issued a visa to enter the United States, you will not be allowed to enter the country more than 30 days before the start of your program. If you are arriving early to Walsh University, you should make sure that Residence Life is informed of your early arrival. If you will be participating in an athletic pre-season or University Leadership program, your coach or Director, should also notify Residence Life, and will provide meals for you until your meal plan begins. If you are not in the above category, you will still need to notify Residence Life, and International Student Services will not provide your meal options until 1 day before orientation.

U.S. immigration law governs the entry of all visitors to the United States, including students and exchange visitors. It details what they are authorized to do during their stay in the country.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is the agency responsible for ensuring that these visitors comply with U.S. law and regulations. When you arrive in the United States, you come under the authority of the Department of Homeland Security, and one of the three units within DHS responsible for non-U.S. citizens: the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Bureau. 

I-94

Customs and Boarder Protection have automated the I-94 and I-94W process for all travelers applying for admission at U.S. ports of entry. Air and sea travelers no longer need to complete paper Form I-94. You may also want to make a copy of the I-94 printed from the CBP website for your personal records. This form will be very important if you must speak to a US government official (Social Security, Bureau of Motor Vehicle, etc.). Additional information about navigating the U.S. immigration system is available here.  

After you arrive in North Canton, you are required to attend the International Student Services Orientation Session, where immigration rules will be discussed and handouts on maintaining valid status will be provided.

You may also schedule a meeting with the Director of International Student Services to discuss any questions or concerns you have about immigration regulations and requirements.  

Arriving at Walsh University

Once you arrive on campus, you should report immediately to International Student Services (ISS) Paul & Carol David Community Campus Center. When you check-in, you should bring the following documents with you:

ISS must report your arrival to the US Department of Homeland Security through SEVIS. If this report is not submitted, you may be considered to be in violation of your status in the United States, so be sure to make ISS one of your first stops on campus.