Does your visa = your immigration status? 

For F or J students, the visa in your passport and your immigration status in the U.S. are distinct concepts. The visa seal means you are approved to request entry into the U.S. as a student. Upon entry, the US Customs and Border patrol assign the immigration status to you, as evidenced by your current I-94. 

As long as you are maintaining your F-1 or J-1 student status while in the United States (see our page on "maintaining your status", you do not need to renew your visa stamp to remain in the country. So even if your visa stamp expires, you can continue your studies without interruption, as long as you are in compliance with your F-1 or J-1 status requirements. Check out our page here on how to maintain your F-1 or J-1 student status.

F-1 and J-1 Visa Renewals: Only Outside the U.S.

If your student visa has expired, you need to get a new visa from a US consulate or embassy outside of the US. You can’t apply for a new visa inside the US. Visit your country's US Embassy or Consulate website to learn about what you will need for your student visa.

You may also want to read the Department of State information on visa denials, and tips on how to apply for a visa. Review information on how to make a visa appointment, and to check on visa wait times in the city you plan to apply. If you have applied for a visa and have been waiting for more than one month for the results of a security advisory opinion, be sure to contact us.

At the minimum, you will need the following to apply*

Passport

An unexpired passport valid at least six months into the future.

I-20 or DS-2019

A valid I-20 or DS-2019, which has been signed for travel. F-1 students, be sure you have your printed I-20 with you. Do not rely on an electronic document.

Proof of Financial Support

Proof of financial support as reflected on the I-20 or DS-2019. This may include personal or family bank statements, a financial support agreement, or copies of your fellowship or scholarship letter.

If your financial documents have changed or been updated, provide them to OISVS so we can update your I-20/DS-2019 prior to your visa appointment.

Enrollment Verification

Proof of full-time enrollment in the form of an ACU enrollment verification.

SEVIS Fee Receipt

Proof that you have paid the SEVIS fee. Get your SEVIS fee receipt.

* Make sure to check the full list of required documents.

Once You Have Your New Visa

Provide OISVS a copy of your new visa so we can have your latest on file.

The information contained on this page is for general information purposes only. Due to frequent government updates, ACU OISVS may make additions, deletions, or modifications to the contents on this page at any time without prior notice.

Please note, these directions are meant to help you in completing your application but should not be considered legal advice. The US Department of State ultimately provides the decision on your visa application.

You must be accurate and truthful in your application. Be aware that any information you withhold from your application, or inaccurate information you accidentally or intentionally include in your application, could result in a visa denial. This information also includes your social media presence.

How to Know if Your Visa is Still Valid 

To ensure that your visa is still valid and has not been revoked, please click the link below to verify your current visa status. 

Click here