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Airport Transportation & Arrival Policy

Note: This policy is subject to change at any time. Please check all SRS Homestay Policies on a regular basis for updates.

SRS Homestay (SRS) understands that arriving in a new country can be stressful for students and their hosts. This policy outlines expectations and responsibilities to ensure a smooth airport pickup experience while minimizing unnecessary delays and miscommunication.

1. Host Transportation Is Optional

  • Hosts are not required to provide airport transportation.

  • If a host is unable or unwilling to provide transportation, the student’s agency, parent, or the student is responsible for arranging their own transport to the host home.

  • SRS may be able to provide contact details for local transportation providers upon request, but does not coordinate transportation. Students are encouraged to use services such as Uber, Uber for Teens, Lyft, or local shuttle/taxi services.

2. Coordination of Pickups

If a host agrees to provide airport pickup:

  • They must confirm the exact date, time, and location in advance with SRS.

  • Hosts are responsible for checking live flight status before departing for the airport.

  • Hosts should plan to arrive at least 1 hour after the scheduled flight arrival time to allow for customs, immigration, and baggage claim.

  • In case of significant delays, hosts should adjust pickup time accordingly.

  • Hosts should download WhatsApp or WeChat to communicate with the student upon arrival, as students may not have a U.S. phone number but may be able to connect via these apps once they have internet access.


3. Student Responsibilities

  • Students (or their agent/parent) must provide SRS with complete arrival details no later than 14 days before travel, including:

    • Flight number(s)

    • Airline

    • Date and time of arrival

    • Arrival airport

    • A working phone number or account (e.g., WhatsApp, WeChat) for communication upon arrival

  • Students must follow instructions given by SRS or the host for where to meet upon arrival.

  • Students should be aware that phones cannot be used while in customs/immigration — communication will only be possible after clearing these checkpoints.

4. Delays and Communication

  • If a flight is delayed, the student (or agent) must inform the host and SRS as soon as possible.

  • If communication is not possible due to phone or internet issues, the host should monitor flight arrival times and adjust accordingly.

  • SRS is not liable for missed pickups caused by:

    • Incorrect or incomplete flight information provided

    • Failure to notify SRS of delays

    • Student arriving significantly earlier or later than confirmed without notice

     

5. Multiple Arrivals

  • If multiple students are arriving at similar times, SRS may arrange group transportation to reduce wait times and logistical challenges.

  • In such cases, hosts may be asked to meet students at a central location (such as a school or designated pickup hub) rather than at the airport.

6. Missed Pickups

  • If a host or arranged driver is unable to meet the student at the airport for any reason, the student (or agent) must arrange alternative transportation to the host home at their own cost.

  • SRS will not arrange transportation in these cases but will provide general guidance on available options if possible.

7. Liability Disclaimer

SRS Homestay is not responsible for:

  • Delays at the airport caused by customs, immigration, or baggage claim

  • Costs incurred due to missed pickups

  • Changes in travel plans that were not communicated in advance

Best Practices for Hosts Providing Airport Pickups

  • Confirm Details in Writing: Verify the student’s name, arrival date, flight number, and airline before travel day.

  • Check Flight Status: Use live flight tracking apps or the airline’s website to confirm updated arrival times.

  • Plan Your Arrival: Show up at least 1 hour after the posted landing time to allow for customs and baggage claim.

  • Bring a Sign: Hold a sign with the student’s full name for easy identification.

  • Have a Meeting Point: Arrange a clear, safe meeting location inside the arrivals area.

  • Be Patient: Customs and immigration can take over an hour for international arrivals, and students cannot use their phones inside customs — they will only be able to communicate once through.

  • Use Messaging Apps: Download WhatsApp or WeChat in advance; these are often the only means of contact before a student has a local SIM card.

  • Have a Backup Plan: If you cannot find the student after 60 minutes, contact SRS for assistance.