General Information: Visas: Guidelines to Obtain J Visa Stamp
- Depending on the embassy/consulate abroad, foreign nationals should anticipate up to one week's processing time for a visa.
- It is the foreign national's responsibility to make any necessary appointments with the consular post for visa processing. Our office can provide the number and address of the post.
- The foreign national must pay the SEVIS fee before applying for a visa.
- In order for the foreign national (and family members) to apply for a J visa, the following documents must be submitted available for inspection at the closest U.S. embassy/consulate to their place of residence:
- Form OF-156 ("Nonimmigrant Visa Application") available at the consular post. The form should be signed and have a photo attached as indicated. Fees will vary depending on the country of residence.
- A passport sized photograph (37mm x 37mm) for each applicant.
- Original valid passport for each applicant.
- Original marriage certificate and proof of the dissolution of any prior marriages (and one additional copy), if applicable.
- Original birth certificate of children also relocating (and one additional copy).
- Original DS-2019 Form properly endorsed by the Office for International Students & Scholars.
- Acceptance letter from the University, if applicable.
- Bank statement or funding letter from the department or other institution.
- It is also recommended that the foreign national carry proof of ties to their home country such as home or property ownership, bank accounts or other financial assets. These are supplemental documents and should be available in case the visa officer asks to examine them.
