As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, international students in Canada who wish to travel to the United States generally require a visa to study there. The specific type of visa you will need depends on the duration and nature of your studies in the US.
The most common visa for international students in the US is the F-1 visa. To apply for an F-1 visa, you would need to be accepted into a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school in the US. Once you have been accepted, the school will provide you with a Form I-20, which you will need for your visa application.
Here are the general steps to obtain an F-1 visa as an international student in Canada:
1. Apply and be accepted to an SEVP-certified school in the US.
2. Pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee.
3. Complete the online nonimmigrant visa application (Form DS-160).
4. Schedule an appointment at the US embassy or consulate in Canada for a visa interview.
5. Prepare the necessary documents, which may include your passport, Form I-20, financial documentation, and evidence of ties to your home country.
6. Attend the visa interview at the US embassy or consulate.
7. If approved, pay the visa issuance fee and wait for your passport with the visa to be returned to you.
It’s important to note that the visa application process and requirements can vary, so it’s recommended to consult the official website of the US embassy or consulate in Canada for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Additionally, due to the evolving nature of immigration policies, it’s possible that there may have been updates or changes since my last knowledge update.
1. Acceptance by a U.S. Institution: To begin the process, you must receive acceptance from a U.S. institution authorized by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This includes universities, colleges, and other educational institutions. Once accepted, the institution will issue you a Form I-20 (for F-1 visa) or a DS-2019 (for J-1 visa).
2. Pay the SEVIS Fee: After receiving the Form I-20 or DS-2019, you will need to pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee. This fee supports the administration and maintenance of the SEVIS program.
3. Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application: You are required to complete the online visa application form (Form DS-160) on the U.S. Department of State’s website. This form will ask for personal information, educational background, and other relevant details.
4. Pay the Visa Application Fee: The visa application involves a nonrefundable fee that varies depending on the visa category and your country of residence. Visit the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate for specific fee details and payment instructions.
5. Schedule and Attend the Visa Interview: Schedule an interview appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. It’s important to schedule well in advance as wait times can vary. On the day of the interview, bring all required documents and be prepared to answer questions about your study plans, finances, and ties to your home country.
6. Gather Required Documents: Typical documents for the visa interview include a valid passport, Form I-20 or DS-2019, SEVIS fee payment receipt, Form DS-160 confirmation page, visa application fee payment receipt, proof of financial support, academic transcripts and diplomas, standardized test scores (if applicable), and any other documents requested by the embassy or consulate.
7. Attend the Visa Interview: During the interview, a consular officer will ask questions to assess your eligibility for the visa. Be ready to demonstrate your intent to study, your financial ability, and your plans to return to your home country after completing your studies. Answer truthfully and confidently.
8. Visa Issuance or Denial: If your visa is approved, the consular officer will provide instructions on collecting your passport with the visa stamp. In case of denial, you will receive a written explanation for the decision.
9. Travel to the United States: Once you have obtained your visa, you can make travel arrangements to the United States. Remember to carry all necessary documents, including your passport, visa, Form I-20 or DS-2019, and financial documentation, with you during travel.
It is crucial to review the specific requirements and procedures outlined by the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country and to carefully follow their instructions. The visa application process may have slight variations based on your country and individual circumstances, so consult official websites and seek guidance from the international student office or designated office at your U.S. institution for accurate information.
