Visa Renewal
F-1 and J-1 visas allow international students to enter the United States and study legally as specified on the I-20 or DS-2019. If your visa has expired, and you plan on traveling outside the United States, it must be renewed in order for you to re-enter. You can do this at the US embassy in your home country. F-1 and J-1 visas cannot be renewed in the United States. The following documents are generally required for visa renewal:
- A non-immigrant visa application Form DS-156, together with a Form DS-158. Both forms must be completed and signed. Some applicants will also be required to complete and sign Form DS-157. Blank forms are available without charge at all U.S. consular offices and on the Visa Services website;
- Current passport-size photographs showing full face, without head covering;
- A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond the applicant’s intended period of stay in the U.S.;
- Valid SEVIS Form I-20 or DS-2019 with a travel signature;
- Proof of Financial Support for total amount listed on I-20 or DS-2019;
- Letter of Support from OISS;
- School Transcripts (from all U.S. schools attended) and Proof of enrollment for next semester;
- Tuition Fee Receipt;
- Proof of residency in your home country that you have no intention of abandoning;
- LMU Student I.D. Card;
- Previous Form I-20s or DS-2019s from all U.S. schools attended (if applicable).
If your F-1 or J-1 student visa expires while you are in the U.S., you do not need to apply for a renewal until you leave the country. You are in the U.S. legally while you are an F-1 and J-1 student in good standing.
Please contact OISS for more information.