Visa
Which visa should I request?
You need an F-1 visa, a non-immigrant visa for students.
Do I have to wait for my new I-20 to apply for my visa?
If you already have an I-20 and are sent a new one from your university because for example you are postponing your college start, you can apply for the visa with your old I-20. Then use both I-20s when you leave.
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.
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.
Do I have to schedule my visa appointment at the US Consulate that is nearest my home address?
No, you can schedule a visa appointment at any of the US Consulates in your country, regardless if it is closest or furthest away from where you live.
I am having trouble completing the DS-160 online form. After a few minutes, it times out and I have to start over from the beginning. How do I fix this?
Unfortunately, the DS-160 website is technically very outdated and no longer up to date. First of all, you should not use the Safari browser, make sure that you have a strong Wi-Fi connection and that you are using a computer and not a smartphone or ...
I am trying to pay the SEVIS Fee. Where can I find my SEVIS ID and my School Code?
You will find both the school code and SEVIS number on your I-20 in these places (of course you will find a combination of numbers and letters on your personal I-20)
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 ...
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.
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 ...
What is the I-20?
The I-20 is the official document that your university sends you after you have been admitted there and have completed all the admission steps. Once you receive your I-20, you can apply for your visa. Since Corona, embassies also accept a printed ...
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