Travelling to the US

In any case, before you book - and also before you possibly apply for a visa - consult the current travel advice of the Dutch government via NetherlandsWorldwideExternal link (in Dutch only).

As an international student, you do not have the same rights in the US as US citizens or permanent residents. US authorities may check your electronic devices and social media during your visa application, upon entering the US, or at other points in the immigration process. The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs explicitly warns individuals from the lhbtiq+ community about the different laws and customs that apply to them in the US.

Good to know

• Upon entering the US, a customs officer may ask you questions about your travel and luggage.
• If you are not a US citizen or permanent resident, you may be refused entry if you do not answer certain questions.
• Customs officers may confiscate electronic devices such as your phone. If this happens, always ask for contact details so you can find out where your device is going.
• If you have Dutch nationality, you can register your stay in the US with the Dutch embassy or consulate there. You will then automatically receive information if circumstances change during your stay.
• If you have a nationality other than Dutch, then consult the advice of your home country's embassy or consulate.

More information

• Several US universities provide up-to-date information on your rights in the US. Check the website of the university you are going to, or consult this example from NYU.External link
• Check out the website of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)External link.
• Check out the website of the Immigrant Defense ProjectExternal link.