Essential Preparations for U.S. Immigration

What do you need to prepare for U.S. Immigration? Once your immigration application has been approved, you’ll need to prepare for your move. Many people find themselves unsure of where to start, what to bring, and what to expect during the entry process at the airport.

Do not worry – ImmiPath, with its experience as a professional immigration and residency consultancy, will help you create a checklist of what you need to prepare for your move to the U.S.

1. Arranging Housing in the U.S.

After completing the legal procedures for U.S. immigration, you should arrange your housing before your trip. If you are not staying with relatives who already have a home in the U.S., you need to look for rental apartments or book a short-term hotel to stay while you search for a permanent place.

Consider whether the housing is close to schools, hospitals, supermarkets,… and your workplace or not. To be cautious, avoid paying too much in advance to landlords before arriving in the U.S.

2. Preparing for Your Flight

To prepare for your flight, you should check for suitable airlines. Most flights from Vietnam to the U.S. currently involve 1-2 layovers, with a total travel time of approximately 18-24 hours.

Domestic airlines are also completing the procedures to approve direct flights to the U.S. Recently, on September 23, 2021, Bamboo Airways launched a direct flight from Vietnam to San Francisco, with a flight duration of 13 hours and 30 minutes.

With this promising development, immigrants to the U.S. have the opportunity to access direct flights to shorten their journey. Contact airlines to find a flight that suits your needs and budget.

3. Carry All Necessary Legal Documents

Immigration documents are extremely important, so this is the most crucial luggage you need to pay attention to. For entry into the U.S., you will need:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months and a visa
• Flight tickets
• Immigration forms (I-94 card)
• Health insurance (You should research and purchase international health insurance before moving to the U.S. to avoid unforeseen risks as you settle in)

Note: Keep these documents in your carry-on luggage for easy access during the immigration inspection.

4. Baggage Regulations

Here are some regulations regarding checked baggage that you should follow:

• Checked Baggage: You are allowed a maximum of 2 pieces, with each piece weighing up to 23 kg and the total dimensions (length, width, and height) not exceeding 158 cm. Airline staff may ask you to remove items or pay additional fees if your baggage exceeds these limits.
• Carry-On Baggage: The total dimensions (length, width, and height) should not exceed 115 cm, and the weight should not exceed 7 kg.
• Liquids: Liquids must be in containers of less than 110 ml and properly wrapped.
• Agricultural Restrictions: The U.S. Department of Agriculture strictly prohibits bringing fruits, vegetables, seeds, and soil into the U.S. due to concerns about bacteria and pests affecting public health.
• Prohibited Items: Sharp metal objects, scissors, knives, nail clippers, and lighters are not allowed.
• Food Restrictions: Fresh or canned food is also prohibited. You may only bring dry foods such as dried fish, dried shrimp, dried squid, and roasted coffee in your checked baggage.

Note on Baggage:

• To avoid losing your baggage, label it with your name, phone number, and address, and use easily identifiable accessories. 
• If your baggage is lost, seek assistance from airport staff to report it at the Lost and Found desk. A lost baggage report can help you claim compensation from your insurance company if you cannot locate your baggage.

5. Things to Note When Entering the U.S.

To complete your entry procedures at the airport, you will need to present the I-94 form for inspection and stamping by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Ensure that the information you provide on the form is accurate and matches the other entry documents. To expedite the check-in process, you might want to prepare a pen to fill out the form either on the plane or upon arrival.

When entering, Customs and Border Protection will ask you several questions. Answer all questions calmly and thoroughly, maintaining a cooperative and honest attitude.

After your entry has been stamped and approved, keep your I-94 card safe, as it is crucial while you are waiting for your U.S. green card.

6. Additional Pieces of Advice

To ensure comfort and health during your long flight, keep the following tips in mind:

• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose lightweight and comfortable clothing.
• Bring a Jacket and Blanket: You may feel cold on the plane, so it’s good to have extra layers.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and eat fruits.
• Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Reduce intake of alcoholic beverages and caffeinated drinks.
• Suck on Hard Candy: This can help alleviate ear and nasal discomfort due to changes in pressure.
• No Smoking: Avoid smoking during the flight.
• Wear Glasses Instead of Contact Lenses: Opt for glasses rather than contact lenses to avoid discomfort.
• Focus on a Fixed Point: This can help reduce dizziness.

With these tips, ImmiPath hopes that readers of the article on what to prepare for U.S. immigration, which can ease your worries and provide useful information for better planning your trip. If you have any further questions, feel free to connect with ImmiPath’s specialists. We are always ready to assist!