Press Releases

Students encouraged to apply early for U.S. Student Visas

July 6, 2007

 

The Consular Section of the Embassy of the United States of America in Nassau strongly encourages all students who intend to study in the United States beginning this fall to apply for their student visa early to provide ample time for visa processing.  Keep in mind that July and August are the busiest months in our consular section, and timely interview appointments may sometimes be difficult to schedule during this period.

Students may apply for their visa as soon as they have all the required documentation.
 
Students should note that the Embassy is able to issue your student visa 120 days or less, in advance of the course of study registration date.

Students need to plan ahead to avoid having to make repeat visits to the Embassy. To the extent possible, students should bring the documents suggested below, as well as any other documents that might help establish their ties to the local community.

• I-20 form issued by the school or university in the U.S.
  

• Evidence of payment of the SEVIS fee (www.fmjfee.com)
  

• A valid passport, with at least six months validity remaining, and any previous passports you have held which are still in your possession.  A report is required for any lost/stolen passports. 
  

• Fully completed and signed application forms DS-156 (and DS-157 to be completed by all male applicants from age 16 through 45.) and DS-158. The DS-156 form must be completed online at http://evisaforms.state.gov and then printed out and signed.  The DS-157 and DS-158 form are found on our website at http://nassau.usembassy.gov or at www.travel.state.gov .
  

• A passport-size photograph taken within the past six months; plain white background, no head coverings.  Hair should be pushed away from the face. (Glasses may be worn if there is no glare and eyes are clearly visible.)  See photo specifications at travel.state.gov.
  

• $100.00 in exact change (all Bahamian or all U.S. -- no mixed currencies).  Payment is by cash, postal money order or certified check only.
  

• Applicants must demonstrate the financial capacity to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the first twelve months. 
  

Please address all inquiries about visas to visanassau@state.gov.  If any student needs to change an already scheduled visa appointment in order to begin studies in a timely manner, he or she should send an email to visanassau@state.gov with the subject line: “Emergency Appointment for a Student Visa.”