Today's Tip: The Visa Process

By now, all students should have their I-20/DS-2019. Upon receiving the I-20/DS-2019, you should schedule a visa interview with the US Embassy in your area. Visa processing timelines can vary by consulate and visa appointments are backlogged at many locations, so please check with your consulate to find out the appointment wait times and processing times. Regardless of the appointment date, it’s important to book the earliest appointment date available.

*Exception: You do not need to apply for a new visa if: you are transferring your SEVIS number to UMD for your studies and your current F-1/J-1 visa will remain valid. Remember, visas are only entry documents so you can remain in the US with an expired visa if your other immigration documents are valid.

Visa interviews take 2-5 minutes. During the interview, the consular officer will be asking you questions about your studies (i.e. "Why did you choose the University of Maryland?"). Since the F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa, you might also be asked about your ties to your home country. Answer the questions clearly and simply, always telling the truth. The consular officer will be evaluating your credibility.  

WHAT TO BRING TO A VISA INTERVIEW:  

• ​​​​A completed visa application form
• Form I-20 or DS-2019
• Proof that you paid the SEVIS fee & visa application fees
• A passport valid for at least 6 months or more into the future
• Financial support documentation that was used for your I-20/DS-2019 creation
• For dependents applying for an F-2/J-2 visa: bring your marriage certificate and/or children’s birth certificate confirming your relationship.

You can find links to your consulate and find more detailed information about applying for your visa on our website.

Possible exemption from in-person interview

The Department of State has authorized consular officers to waive the in-person interview for certain categories of visa applicants. The exemption applies to travelers applying for an F or J who were previously issued any type of US visa (including B visitor visas). If you have ever had a US visa issued, ISSS encourages you to check at your local consulate to see if this option is available to you.

Qualifications for an Expedited Interview Appointment

Students who are having trouble securing a visa appointment before the start of the semester may be eligible for expedited/emergency visa appointment. In order to be eligible for an expedited visa appointment you need to have a visa appointment scheduled for a future date, be sure to schedule the earliest visa appointment available now and then try to request an expedited appointment should this option be available.

“Consular sections overseas may be able to expedite your interview date if there is an urgent, unforeseen situation such as a funeral, medical emergency, or school start date. The process to request an expedited nonimmigrant visa interview varies by location. You should refer to the instructions on the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section where you will interview, or on their online appointment scheduling site. You will need to provide proof of the need for an earlier appointment.” Your I-20/DS2019 start date provides the necessary information you need to demonstrate your start date at UMD.

When can I enter the US?

Remember, the earliest date you can arrive in the US is 30 days prior to the program start date on your I-20/DS-2019. Students with an immigration document with a start date of January 19, 2024 can enter the US no earlier than December 20, 2024.

*Students who are transferring SEVIS records or changing program levels are not limited to the 30 day arrival window.

In addition to our weekly tip of the week, the ISSS also offers an online orientation, it will be available by December 4, 2023.

Connect with us 

Ask your questions via our Live Chat, available on our website Monday-Friday from 9-11 a.m. ET.

Schedule a Virtual Appointment with an ISSS advisor. Appointments can be scheduled under newly admitted students Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30-3:30 p.m. ET.

By email: isss-admissions@umd.edu

For important reminders and updates, and to keep aware of any upcoming events, please follow our office at our social media accounts. Join us on ISSS Instagram!

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We hope that you find these emails informative and helpful. You are receiving

them because you have been accepted to the University of Maryland for the Spring 2024 semester. If you do not intend to enroll at UMD, please inform ISSS via your iTerp checklist, your department, and either the Graduate School (graduate students) or the undergraduate admissions office (undergraduate students-please fill out this form) that you decline your admission.