Undergraduate Checklist and Timeline - Visa

Step 7 – Visa

Websites

• To find a U.S. Consulate or Embassy see: http://usembassy.state.gov/
• For a description of the visa application procedures see: http://travel.state.gov/visa/visa_1750.html

E-mail

• Not applicable.

Instructions With Regard to the Visa Process

• The Office of Visa and Immigration Services will provide a cover letter with your I-20 or DS-2019, complete instructions for obtaining the visa will be included in that letter.
• A visa stamp is the key to enter the United States. It is different from the I-20 form or the DS-2019 form which is required for a visa application.
• Canadian citizens do not need a visa stamp but are inspected at the U.S. Port of Entry for admission in F-1 or J-1 status.
• Contact the U.S. Consulate for a visa appointment

Questions

• Review the websites above.

Time Frame

• Applications for visas are made after receipt of the I-20 and after the SEVIS fee has been paid.
  • Canadian citizens do not apply for a visa stamp but are inspected at the port of entry for admission in F-1 or J-1 status.
• For all others, a valid visa stamp is required for inspection, admission, and entry to the United States

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