New changes in USA student Visas
The United States Department of State has announced a much-needed update for international students looking to study in the US. Starting from March 1st, 2023, prospective F-1 student visa applicants can now apply up to 365 days before their academic term begins. Previously, F1 visa applicants were required to schedule their visa interview within 120 days of receiving their I-20 form, which is a document issued by the university or college that the applicant intends to attend in the United States.
This change means that universities can now accept and issue I-20 forms 12-14 months before term time, giving students more time to complete the visa application process. However, students will still only be allowed to travel to the US on a visa 30 days before the start of their program.
Other measures to reduce US student visa delays:
Over the past few months, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has taken multiple steps to ease the processing time, including special interview slots, and interview waivers for some applicants.
Here are some of the measures that have been implemented:
Interview waiver process:
The Department of State has initiated a US interview waiver process for some temporary workers, students, and academic exchange visitors. This means that those eligible for the waiver will not have to go through an in-person interview, reducing wait times and making the process more convenient.
Special Saturday interview days:
On January 21, 2023 the embassy launched the first in a series of special Saturday interview days to reduce wait times for first-time visa applicants.The US Embassy in New Delhi and Consulates in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad opened consular operations on Saturdays to accommodate applicants who require in-person visa interviews.
These measures have helped to reduce wait times for visa processing, especially for H-1B and F-1 visa applicants. International students significantly contribute to the US economy and cultural landscape, and these updates will help make the visa application process smoother and more efficient.
The US Department of State has urged students to stay informed about the latest developments in visa processing procedures andconsult with their educational institution and relevant immigration authorities to ensure that they are following the correct procedures.
For more information please feel free to contact on :
VISHAL SHAH
CEO - OM Group of Companies
OM INTERNATIONAL
An ISO 9001: 2008 Certified Company & CRISIL AAA Rated Company Head Office: 2nd floor, Indraprasth Avenue, Next to Urjita Hospital, V.I.P. Road,Karelibaug, Vadodara-390018, Gujarat, INDIA Phone:+91-265-2480840/2464464/164 Office: +91-922 765 6606 / 08 / 09 Email: omvishal.shah@gmail.com W - www.ominternational.net / www.omvisas.in |
Like us at - https://www.facebook.com/omvisas
0 Comments