Visa Documents — Navigating the Final Hurdle

Your end-to-end checklist for a successful F-1 visa application.

Overview

After your admission, assemble these documents before the interview. Use the sections below as a checklist; bring originals where required, with organized copies.

Visa preparation overview

DS-160 — Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application

Complete the DS-160 online. Save your Application ID, upload a compliant photo, and print the confirmation page with the barcode.

  • DS-160 confirmation page (with barcode)
  • Photo meets U.S. visa requirements
DS-160 confirmation sample

SEVIS I-901 Fee Receipt

Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee using your SEVIS ID (on the I-20). Print and carry the official receipt to your interview.

  • I-901 payment receipt (printed)
  • SEVIS ID matches your I-20
SEVIS fee receipt sample

CGI/ MRV Visa Fee Receipt

Pay the visa application fee (MRV). Keep the receipt and note any reference number used to schedule your interview.

  • MRV fee receipt (printed)
  • Reference/receipt number saved
CGI/MRV fee receipt sample

Passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Carry a copy of the bio page.

  • Original passport (validity ≥ 6 months past stay)
  • Photocopy of bio page
Passport example

Form I-20

Issued by your university. Sign and date page 1. Confirm program start date, financials, and SEVIS ID.

  • Signed I-20 (Page 1)
  • Program/SEVIS details checked
Form I-20 sample

Financial Documents

Show liquid funds covering the first year’s estimated cost (tuition + living), plus proof of sponsor relationship if applicable.

  • Recent bank statements/letters (typically last 3–6 months)
  • Sponsorship letters / affidavit of support
  • Scholarship/assistantship letters (if any)
  • Tax returns/ITR, pay slips (as available)
Bank statement example

Visa Appointment Confirmation

Schedule the OFC (biometrics) and Consular interview. Print confirmations and bring them, along with any required profiles/letters.

  • OFC appointment confirmation
  • Consular appointment confirmation
Appointment confirmation sample

Tips & Notes

  • Organize: Use a slim folder with labeled sections to move quickly at the window.
  • Consistency: Ensure names, dates, and SEVIS IDs match across DS-160, I-20, fee receipts, and passport.
  • Be concise: Practice short, direct answers for the interview. Answer what’s asked.
  • Extra copies: Carry a few spare photocopies of key pages (I-20, passport bio page, fee receipts).
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