Learning about your Immigration Documents
There are different types of documents you need to maintain your status in the US.
I-20
An immigration document for students in F status issued by the University of Tennessee.
It must remain valid during your entire program of study. If you cannot finish your program before the expiration date, you must apply for an extension.
You may receive more than one I-20; keep ALL I-20s forever in a safe place.
Information should always be accurate. If you change your name, major, or degree level, you must request a new I-20 with the updated information.
DS-2019
An immigration document for students in J status.
Could be issued by UT or could be issued by a sponsoring agency (IIE, LASPAU, etc.).
It must remain valid during your entire program of study.
Information should always be accurate. If any information changes, you must request an updated DS-2019.
Visa
Only needed to enter the US.
Can expire while inside the US. if your other documents are still valid.
You cannot apply for a new F-1 or J-1 visa while inside the US.
Always be sure that you enter the US. with the appropriate visa.
Passport
Must remain valid at all times (be sure it is valid for at least 6 months in the future).
If it is about to expire, contact your home government’s embassy or consulate to renew or extend.
I-94
Your arrival record. It records your official legal entry into the United States.
Found online at i94.cbp.dhs.gov.
Indicates your immigration status inside the US, date of arrival, and length of stay permitted
Every time you enter the US, check the online record at http://cbp.dhs.gov to be sure your information is correct and that you are admitted in F-1 for J-1 status until D/S (Duration of Status). We recommend printing a copy of the record or storing an electronic record.