Survival Kit

Arriving at a new airport in a foreign country can feel overwhelming, but here’s a simple guide to help you through your first steps at Sea-Tac International Airport: 

1. Immigration and Customs: 

Follow the signs for "Arrivals" or "Immigration." Have your passport, visa, I-20 form, and any other REQUIRED TRAVEL DOCUMENTS ready. Be prepared to answer questions from the immigration officer about your purpose of visit and intended length of stay. 

After immigration, you'll collect your baggage and proceed through customs. Declare any items as required. 

2. Connectivity: 

Utilize the free airport WI-FI to connect with family or friends, let them know you’ve arrived safely, and navigate using maps or transportation apps. The airport's network name should be easily visible, and usually requires no password. 

3. Transportation Options: 

From the airport to your new house or dorms, there are different transportation options that you should considered: 

• Head to the LINK LIGHT RAIL STATION, located near the baggage claim area. The Link train connects Sea-Tac Airport directly to downtown Seattle and other key destinations. It’s an affordable and efficient option. Remember to use your ORCA card. If you don’t have or if you don’t know yet what it is, don’t worry! There will be machines available where you can buy a ticket, or you can use the app “Transit to Go”
• Use the PUBLIC BUS, check bus routes and schedules for options heading to your destination. The bus stop is usually outside the arrivals area. Apps like "Transit" and "OneBusAway" can be very helpful.
• If you prefer, you can order an UBER or LYFT. Designated pickup areas for ride-sharing services are typically located outside of baggage claim. Follow the signs or use the app to locate your driver.
• TAXIS are also available outside the arrivals area, but they tend to be more expensive than other options.

4. Documentation:

Keep Documents Accessible: Ensure all your important travel documents (passport, visa, I-20 form) are readily accessible. Store them in a safe and easily reachable place, NOT deep inside your luggage.

+ Check if you need to download your I-94 travel record from the official website (https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov) and note any further instructions you might need to complete your legal paperwork.

TIPS: 

• Charge Your Devices: Make sure your phone is fully charged before you arrive, or carry a portable charger. 
• Have Your Address Ready: Know the address of your final destination or temporary accommodation so you can give directions to drivers or use navigation apps. 

By following these steps, you’ll be able to navigate your arrival at Sea-Tac Airport smoothly and efficiently!

Having a LOCAL BANK ACCOUNT is incredibly useful for international students in the United States. It simplifies managing your finances, paying rent, bills, and making day-to-day purchases. It also avoids international transaction fees and provides a safe place to store your money. Plus, it’s often required for services like getting a U.S. phone plan.

The day you will open a bank account, you will need some required documents: 

• Passport: Your primary form of identification. 
• Visa: Your legal permission to study in the U.S. 
• I-20 Form: Proof of your student status. 
• Proof of Address: A lease agreement or utility bill confirming your U.S. address.
• U.S. Phone Number: A working phone number for contact purposes. 

After checking if you have all these documents, you have to choose a bank. But which bank? Fortunately, some of our international students recommended their favorite ones: 

• Bank of America: Offers student accounts with no monthly fees. Known for a wide range of services and branches. 
• Chase Bank: Provides various student-friendly banking options and an easy-to-use online banking platform. 
• Wells Fargo: Has an extensive ATM network and offers student accounts tailored to university students. 

A TIP for you: schedule an appointment! It is optional but recommended. Many banks allow you to schedule an appointment online to reduce wait times at the branch.

The day of your appointment, bring all the required documents and remember to inform the bank representative that you are an international student opening a new account, maybe they will have special offers too. 

Complete the Application filling out the necessary forms and provide the requested information. Don’t worry! The bank representative will guide you through the process. Once approved, you will receive your account number and any relevant cards or checks. 

Another TIP is to consider opening a PAYPAL ACCOUNT! PayPal is an online payment system that allows you to send and receive money securely. It's particularly useful for transferring funds quickly and easily between accounts, especially if your parents also have PayPal accounts. This can make it much simpler for them to send you money, avoiding potential bank transfer fees and delays. It’s a convenient way to manage smaller amounts and is widely accepted for online purchases.

Getting a LOCAL PHONE/SIM CARD is essential for international students in the United States. It helps you stay connected, use navigation apps, communicate with friends and family, and receive important calls. It also avoids high roaming costs from your home SIM card.

You can visit physical stores or choose an online eSIM. 

Physical Stores: 

• AT&T: Known for wide coverage; visit local stores for student plans. They often offer specific plans tailored to university students. 
• T-Mobile: Offers flexible plans; the Northgate Mall location is convenient and has staff who can provide in-person assistance. 

Online eSIM Options: 

• Airalo: Provides instant eSIM activation with competitive rates. Great for those who need a number immediately without visiting a physical store. 
• Holafly: Offers unlimited data plans suitable for short-term stays or limited periods. Perfect for those here for a semester or a year. 
• US Mobile: Customizable plans with eSIM support. You have the freedom to choose the data amount you need. 

Why should you use an eSIM? 

• Immediate Activation: No waiting for a physical SIM card to be delivered. 
• Easy Plan Switching: Easily switch between different plans. 
• Dual SIM: Keep your home number and use an American number on the same phone.

While eSIMs offer many benefits, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. First compatibility is key; not all phones support eSIM technology, so you'll need to verify that your device is compatible before opting for this service. Second, transferring an eSIM to a new phone might be a bit more complex compared to swapping a physical SIM card. Finally, accessing support for eSIM-related issues could sometimes be more challenging, as it might involve navigating through specific digital processes with your carrier. 

But remember to use what you prefer! 

TIPS for your phone/SIM card: 

• Check Coverage: Before choosing a carrier, check the coverage in your area (especially where you live and study).
• Student Plans: Always ask if there are special plans for international students. - Evaluate Your Needs: If you need a lot of data, choose an unlimited data plan. If you make few calls, look for plans with limited calls.
• Roaming: Remember that some plans offer roaming in Mexico and Canada, which is useful if you plan to travel. 

Navigating Seattle's public transportation system is easy once you understand the key elements.

The ORCA CARD: Your Ticket to Ride 

ORCA stands for One Regional Card for All. It's a reloadable transit card that works on most public transportation systems in the Seattle area, including buses, light rail, ferries, and commuter trains. 

WHY get one? Using an ORCA card is essential for convenient travel. It simplifies fare payment, often provides discounts, and eliminates the need for exact change. 

COST for Students: The cost of a student ORCA card varies, but you'll generally pay a reduced rate per ride compared to standard fares, thanks to a student discount. There might be an initial card fee. Check with your college or university's transportation office for the most up-to-date pricing.

WHERE to get it: You can typically obtain a student ORCA card from your college or university's transportation office or student services center. Some retailers and transit centers also sell standard ORCA cards, but student discounts require verification from your educational institution.

HOW to receive it: Once you apply for a student ORCA card, you'll need to provide proof of enrollment. Your school will guide you through the process, and you'll either receive the card immediately or be notified when it's ready for pickup.

The LINK LIGHT RAIL: Fast and efficient travel

WHAT is it? The Link Light Rail is Seattle's light rail system, providing fast, reliable transportation throughout the city and beyond.

WHY is it useful? The Link Light Rail connects Sea-Tac International Airport to Lynwood, making it a convenient option upon arrival. It also serves many neighborhoods and areas of interest, reducing travel time and avoiding traffic congestion.

↳ ORCA Card and Link Light Rail: You can use your ORCA card to pay for fares on the Link Light Rail. Simply tap your ORCA card on the reader at the station before boarding and again when exiting to ensure you're charged the correct fare.

• Connecting Points: The Link Light Rail also has connections to other transport modes in Seattle. So if you were using a bus and had an ORCA, you could simply board the Link light rail using the same card without any issues.

Apps for Public Transportation 

• Transit: Provides real-time tracking of public transit options, helping you see when your bus or train will arrive.
• Transit go: if you want to buy one ride tickets, this is the perfect app for you!
• OneBusAway: Offers arrival times and route information, focusing primarily on bus services.

By understanding the ORCA card and the Link Light Rail, you'll be able to navigate Seattle's public transportation system with ease, saving time and money as you explore the city.

Understanding these documents is important for your legal status in the U.S. 

I-94 Form: The I-94 is your arrival/departure record. It officially documents your entry into the United States. 

Why is it Important? It proves your legal status in the country and details how long you are authorized to stay. It’s essential for maintaining your legal student status. 

How to Get It? You can retrieve your arrival/departure record online at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov. It's often issued electronically upon arrival.

Social Security Number (SSN): The SSN is a nine-digit number issued by the U.S. government to track your earnings and is used for Social Security benefits. 

When Do You Need It? An SSN is required only if you have employment authorization in the United States. If you are not working on campus, you don’t need to get one. 

How to Get It? If you have a job offer or on-campus employment authorization, you'll need to visit the local Social Security Administration (SSA) office. 

Documents Needed: Bring necessary documents, including your passport, visa, I-20 form, a job offer letter, and authorization from your school. 

Important Note: The information provided here is a general guide. Always check official government websites and resources to ensure accuracy and compliance. Immigration laws and regulations can change, so it's crucial to verify details from the official sources. For official embassy links, you might want to check directly from your country's immigration government site.