Getting your F-1 visa stamped in your passport is one step, not the finish line. There are several things you need to do before and after entering the US to make sure your status is properly active.

After the visa is approved, check the visa stamp carefully. Confirm your name matches your passport exactly, the visa category says F-1, and the expiry date is correct. Keep your DS-160 confirmation, approval notice, and the I-20 from your university together. You will need all of them.

You cannot enter the US more than 30 days before your programme start date as listed on your I-20. Arriving earlier risks being turned away at the port of entry. Plan your travel date accordingly.

At the US port of entry, you will go through immigration. The officer will review your passport, visa, I-20, and may ask questions about your programme and funding. Answer clearly and honestly. Keep physical copies of your financial statements and admission letter in your carry-on, not just on your phone.

After entry, the officer will update your I-94 record digitally. Within a few days of arrival, check your I-94 online at cbp.dhs.gov/I94 to confirm your entry was recorded correctly and your status shows as F-1.

Within the first week at your university, report to the international student office. This triggers SEVIS to show you as active in the system. Failing to report can cause your SEVIS record to be terminated, which puts your status at risk.

Your F-1 visa stamp may expire while you are still studying, and that is completely normal. The visa stamp is only for entering the US. As long as your I-20 is valid and you are enrolled full-time, your status is fine. You only need a valid visa stamp when you are re-entering the US after travelling abroad.