Immigration & International Arrival Information

International students sit around a laptop computer.

International Student Services

International Student Services provides the services and support to welcome you to your new home at UB.

Our staff can help address your immigration concerns, help you adjust to life in Buffalo and can even help introduce you to all the Buffalo-Niagara region has to offer. 

Below is a list of just some of the topics covered on the International Student Services' website:

  • New international student check-in.
  • International Student Welcome Series.
  • What to expect when you arrive in Buffalo.
  • Options employment and obtaining a Social Security card.

Your U.S. Visa

To come to the U.S. to study, you will need to apply for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Most international students come to the U.S. on F-1 visas, while some come on J-1 visas. However, there are some other visa categories that permit studying (H-1B, H-4, L-2, E-2, etc.).

Your visa category will determine many aspects of your life in the U.S., like your studies, employment, and travel. Most international students at UB will follow F-1 immigration regulations.

International Student Welcome Series

Graduate International Student Welcome provides programs and activities specifically for international students to welcome you to UB, and help you get settled before the start of your first semester here.

Pre-Arrival Live Events

Join us live to have your questions answered about housing, travel, class registration, bill payment and more!

Unable to attend or want to re-watch? All sessions are recorded and posted on ISS's website for your convenience.

Welcome Series

The Welcome Series sessions and activities are informative, useful, and important as you continue your transition to UB throughout your first semester on campus.