F1/F2 Visa Information

F1 Visa is issued only for international students who intend to study full-time in URI. The following information is provided as guidance to obtain F1 Visa in general. F2 Visa is issued to dependents of the international students who apply for F1 visa. You should always follow the guidelines given to you by the American Consulate. If you have any questions regarding any of the information described below, please contact the American Consulate having jurisdiction over your visa application. To find American consulate or embassy near you visit: American Consulate. In order to obtain the F-1 visa you must submit the required documents or evidence as listed below:

1. I-20 form issued and signed by the University of Rhode Island
    
2. Proof of paid SEVIS fee (all I-20 created on or after Sept. 1, 2004, will be charged this fee). More information can be obtained at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
    
3. Evidence of financial ability to meet your academic expenses. Use Certificate of Financial Responsibility Form and the min. amount of financial responsibility should be obtained from estimated expense
    
4. Evidence of intent to depart the U.S. after the completion of studies, such as family tie, business tie or government tie etc.
    
5. Evidence of having met the English proficiency ability established by the university, such TOFEL score, GRE, GMAT etc.
    
6. Proof of a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months into the future)
    
7. Adequate photograph, for more detailed information, please visit USCIS Photo
    
8. Machine Readable Visa (MRV) surcharge fee of $100.00 (fee subject to change)
    
9. Visa reciprocity fee (if applicable). See more information at U.S. State Travel

You can also download Obtaining F1 Visa Handout in PDF format.

Some of helpful questions and answers as follow:

1. Where can I apply for the F-1 Visa?
   
   1. Generally, you may apply for a visa at the country of home residence. You should apply for a visa “at a consular office having jurisdiction over the alien’s place of residence.
   2. In some instances you may apply for a visa at any other consular office located in a country different from your place of residence, but only if that particular consular office permits it and has agreed to process the “third country nationals” (TCNs) visa. You must inquire about this option prior to applying for it. The majority of consular offices will accept visa applications, however, this type of application may be more difficult or time consuming.
   3. If you are changing status from other visa types to F1 student
    
2. When can I  apply for the F-1 visa?
   
   You can apply for the F-1 visa at any time before the program start date (listed on the I-20 form); however, the visa stamp will not be issued until 90 days before the program start date (listed on the I-20 form).
    
3. After the visa has been issued, when can I enter the United States?
   
   Even if your visa stamp is issued 90 days before the program start date (listed on the I-20 form), you will only be allowed to enter the country no earlier than 30 days before the program start date (listed on the I-20 form), therefore you must plan accordingly.
    
4. Could I change to F1 Visa from other visa status?
   
   It depends on the visa type, for example, if you are in H1/H4 to change F1, you can apply changes of Status and please come to see OISS office staff for more information.

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This site was last updated on Aug 30, 2006 . Questions or Comments?