Generally speaking, the first step is the immigration checkpoint, where you will show your passport, visa, and I-20. The second part comes when you pass through customs after collecting your checked luggage from the claim carousels in the baggage terminal. Note: Your port of entry may not be your final destination.

Landing at a US airport, especially for international arrivals, involves a structured multi-step process. First, you will proceed to Customs and Border Protection (CBP), where you will either use an Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosk or speak directly with an officer who will verify your passport, visa, or ESTA and ask about your purpose of visit. After clearing immigration, you must collect all checked luggage from the baggage carousel—even if you have a connecting flight—as you must "clear" your bags through customs yourself. You then walk through the customs exit, where you might be asked to declare items like food or high-value currency. If you have a connection, you will place your bags on a "Re-check" belt immediately after exiting the customs hall. Finally, you will likely have to clear TSA security again to reach the domestic departure gates. For domestic arrivals, the process is much simpler: you simply deplane into the terminal and head straight to baggage claim or the exit, with no additional security or document checks required upon landing.