Visa Renewal
Important Reminder
If your F-1 visa has expired, but you have a valid I-20, you can stay in the U.S. until the end of your academic program. If you travel internationally with an expired F-1 visa, you will need to apply for another visa before returning to the U.S. to resume studying.
How to Apply for a New F-1 Visa
To apply for another F-1 visa, you will need to submit a new application and attend a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. It is not possible to renew your F-1 visa while in the U.S. You can complete the visa application and schedule an appointment while in the U.S., but you must go abroad for the interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Complete the DS-160 visa application and pay the application fee ($185 USD)
- Schedule an appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad
- Attend the visa interview and submit the required documents
Required Documents
- Valid passport with 2-3 blank pages
- Valid I-20
- DS-160 confirmation page
- SEVIS fee receipt
- You do not have to pay the SEVIS fee again, you only need proof that it has been paid
- Reprint your SEVIS fee receipt if necessary
- Unofficial transcripts
- Letter of enrollment
- You can request this from the Registrar's Office
- Financial documents
- Academic and/or athletic scholarship information, personal or sponsor bank statements, educational loan information, etc.
- There is no minimum amount required, however having proof of financial ability is important to the visa application process
In-Person Visa Interview Waiver
You may qualify for an interview waiver, which will be determined once you submit a visa application and attempt to book an interview appointment. If you qualify for an interview waiver, you will need to follow the instructions that the Embassy or Consulate provides to drop off your passport and other required documents for visa processing.
Applying for a New Visa While on OPT
Applying for a new visa while on OPT is no different than the steps listed above, however you will need to bring some additional documentation to the interview:
- Valid EAD card or I-797 Approval Notice or I-797C Notice of Action
- Job offer letter or contract, if available