USA Visa Process
Choose a School
Research and select a SEVP-certified school in the United States that offers the program you’re interested in.
Receive Acceptance
Apply and get accepted into the school. Once accepted, the school will issue you a Form I-20.
Pay SEVIS Fee
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. You’ll need the SEVIS ID number from your Form I-20 to complete this step.
Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out the DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application form online. This form collects basic biographical information and details about your intended stay in the United States.
Schedule Visa Interview
Schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Be sure to check the wait times for appointments, as they can vary.
Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents for your visa interview, including:
- Valid passport
- Form DS-160 confirmation page
- SEVIS fee payment receipt
- Form I-20 issued by your school
- Proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses
- Academic transcripts and standardized test scores
- Any additional documents requested by the embassy or consulate
Attend Visa Interview
Arrive at the embassy or consulate on the scheduled date and time for your visa interview. Dress neatly and be prepared to answer questions about your academic background, intentions in the United States, financial situation, and ties to your home country.
Wait for Visa Processing
After the interview, the consular officer will determine whether to approve or deny your visa application. If approved, your passport with the visa stamp will be returned to you via mail or courier service.
Travel to the U.S
Once you receive your visa, you can make travel arrangements to the United States. Be sure to arrive in the U.S. no earlier than 30 days before the start date of your program.
Report to School
Upon arrival in the United States, report to your designated school official (DSO) and complete any necessary check-in procedures.
Remember to check for any updates or changes to the visa application process on the official website of the U.S. Department of State or the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate where you’ll be applying.