Which visa should I request?

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• How long is a visa valid?

  Your F1 visa is usually valid for 5 years. So make sure that your passport is also valid for that long.

• When can I start applying for my visa?

  You can apply for your visa as soon as you receive your I-20, but no earlier than 120 days before your studies begin. This date is listed under Start on Studies on your I-20.

• Can I get my visa in another country?

  No, you must visit a U.S. consulate in the country where you live. You cannot make an appointment for a visa in another country if you are not a citizen of that country.

• I am not able to schedule a visa appointment yet. Why not?

  Before you can schedule a visa appointment, you will have to pay the visa fee. You can do this by clicking on the button on the top left of your online consular account that says Schedule Appointment. Then you will need to answer all of the ...

• Should I have the visa sent to me or pick it up?

  Depending on where you live, you should have the visa sent back to you by UPS, as it will not be issued on the same day as your appointment at the embassy. Expect 1-3 working days. So if you do not live near the embassy to pick up the visa at one of ...