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Types of Visas

Student or Exchange Programs

Student Visas (F, M)

Those wishing to study in the United States must include with the visa application the Form I-20 and evidence of funding for the first year's studies, as well as sources of adequate funding for subsequent years. The Form I-20 is provided by the United States institution after a foreign student has been accepted. F-1 and M-1 visa applicants must complete barcoded DS-156 form.

Please note that students planning to attend public high schools in the United States must meet different requirements. Please click here for further information on Student Visas.

Exchange Visas (J)

The United States Government and many private organizations sponsor a wide variety of exchange programs. These include academic and cultural exchanges, as well as au pair programs and summer work and travel programs. Applications for J-1 Exchange Visitor visas must be accompanied by the Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for NIV Exchange Visitor) which is provided by the sponsoring U.S. organization. J-1 visa applicants must complete barcoded DS-156  form, DS-157  and DS-158 forms and submit it with the visa application. Scholars and exchange visitors from abroad whose DS-2019 is issued on or after September 1, 2004, will be required to pay the appropriate fee - in most cases, $100 - prior to obtaining their visas. This fee must be paid before a visa can be issued. For the most up-to-date information about SEVIS, please click here.

Summer Work & Travel Program For Students

For more information on Student and Exchange programs, please see Studying in the U.S. or http://exchanges.state.gov/education/jexchanges/.