What is a Student Visa?
COVID-19 Corner
Below are important items for you to consider in your visa application planning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also refer to the Study Abroad COVID-19 FAQs.
- Entry rules and requirements are in flux, due to COVID-19, so it is important that you follow news and updates from the embassy or consulate of your host country.
- Be advised that foreign consulates are processing visas more slowly than normal due to COVID-19. Expect longer than normal processing times.
A student visa is a government-issued immigration document granted by a consulate general or embassy, which allows you to legally study in a specific country for a specific date range. Typically, a visa is an endorsed sticker or stamp placed on the inside pages of your passport. Your student visa is as important as your passport; without it you will not be able to study abroad, if required by your host country.
Every country has their own process, requirements, and fees for applying for a visa. Some countries may require you to travel to an in-person appointment at a consulate or embassy in select U.S. cities. You can find the most up-to-date visa information by contacting the consulate or embassy of your host country.
Many visa applications require you to certify a minimum level of finances while abroad. If you are a financial aid recipient and will attend a direct-enrollment program, you may need to provide a letter certifying financial support from Â鶹´«Ã½. Contact financial aid office in the financial aid office for this letter, and provide the specific instructions from your visa application.
Being granted a visa is a privilege, not a right. A consular office may deny your visa application, so it is best to adhere to their requirements and apply as early as possible.
What to Know Â鶹´«Ã½ Applying for a Student Visa
Obtaining a visa is your responsibility. It is important that you know what is required of you before attempting to enter a country. Failing to obtain a visa (or the correct visa) could result in a denial of entry into a country, and even criminal charges.
You Need a Passport
Before you can apply for a visa, you need a passport that is valid for at least six months after your program end date. Find your program dates on the webpage for your program.
You Apply at a Consulate
A consulate general or embassy is a government office operated by your host country in the U.S. To find out which consulate(s) you can apply to, identify which one serves the jurisdiction of your home and/or school address. Talk to your GLO adviser for more info.
Visas Cost Money
The cost to apply for a visa varies by country, but typically includes a fee paid directly to the consulate (ranging from $55-$1,000). These fees are set by the consulate, not by Â鶹´«Ã½, and can fluctuate.
You May Need to Travel
Visa processing procedures vary by country. In many cases, you are required to appear in person at the consulate. Consular appointments are limited, so plan ahead! Keep in mind that your consulate may be out-of-state, requiring you to fly, drive, and/or stay overnight to make your appointment.
Visas Require a Specific Timeline
Most consulates accept visa applications 90 to 120 days before your program begins. When requesting an appointment, account for your program start date, the application window, and the processing time required for the consulate to issue your visa, which can take up to 8 weeks.
Other Considerations
Non-U.S. Citizens
It is your responsibility to research the entry requirements and complete the visa application for citizens of your home country traveling to your study abroad country. In most cases, students holding non-U.S. passports can still apply for their visa in the U.S., since you are studying in the U.S.
Be sure to contact the Â鶹´«Ã½ Office of International Student & Scholar Services to ensure you understand any INS requirements and that you do not jeopardize your residency status by participating in a program abroad.
Be aware that it may take non-U.S. citizens longer to obtain a visa, so research this information early on in your planning.
Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)
It is your responsibility to research the entry requirements and complete the visa application for citizens of your home country traveling to your study abroad country. In most cases, green card holders will still apply for their visa in the U.S.
Be sure to contact the Â鶹´«Ã½ Office of International Student & Scholar Services to ensure you understand any INS requirements and that you do not jeopardize your residency status by participating in a program abroad.
Be aware that it may take non-U.S. citizens longer to obtain a visa, so research this information early on in your planning.
: Information from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
: Application for Travel Document
- Permanent residents (Green Card holders): You must travel with the passport of your country of citizenship, or obtain a reentry permit or refugee travel document (form I-131).
- You cannot travel abroad on a “green card” alone. To determine your education abroad visa requirements, check the requirements per your passport/citizenship.
- Your “green card” must be presented for reentry into the U.S.
Be aware that it may take non-U.S. citizens longer to obtain a visa, so research this information early on in your planning.
Visa Resources
These resources are helpful for checking basic entry requirements. Visa processing services are also listed.
Country-specific student visa information for common study abroad destinationsEntry requirements for U.S. citizens; best for tourism as it does not give student visa information, but still provides a good snapshot
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- Visa processing services
- Prices vary; most allow for expedited service at an extra fee
- Student visa category is typically available only for U.S. citizens
- These sites are very useful for quickly determining whether you are required to obtain a visa and whether an in-person appointment is required. This is especially useful when researching non-U.S. citizen situations.