There is some big relief news for Indian students who dream of studying in America. The US Embassy and Consulates in India have again started the process of F (academic), M (professional), and J (exchange program) visas. It was stopped for some time. Now it has been started again after getting the green signal from the US State Department. Although the slots are still limited, eligible students can now book interview appointments and complete the application process in time.

Which visas have been started again?

F Visa: For academic courses, graduation, master's and PhD

M Visa: For vocational and non-academic training courses

J Visa: For student exchange, research scholar, teaching program, etc.

Interview scheduling has now started in these three categories, and students are advised to check the availability of slots by visiting the website of the US Embassy or the concerned consulate.

Where and how to apply for a visa?
1. Fill out the DS-160 form

This is the most important online form for visa application.

Fill in all the information correctly; any lie or mistake can lead to visa rejection.

2. Pay the SEVIS fee.

Payment of the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee is mandatory.

Save the receipt after payment; it is an important document for the interview.

3. Keep the documents ready

Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

I-20 (for F/M visa) or DS-2019 (for J visa)

SEVIS receipt, DS-160 confirmation page

University offer letter, financial support documents

4. Book an appointment

Create an account by visiting ustraveldocs.com or the website of the concerned embassy.

Book a slot by selecting VAC (Visa Application Center) and Consulate/Embassy as per your city.

These are the new important rules and precautions for the visa.

Now it is mandatory to fill in the social media username of the last 5 years in the visa application (DS-160). Hiding the handles of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc., can lead to visa rejection. Keep social media public and avoid any controversial or objectionable content.

Earlier, many students used to get relief in the drop-box (Interview Waiver), but now this facility will be available only to those whose visa has been valid in the same category in the last 12 months. On the other hand, students who are not able to get an appointment on time. They can apply for an emergency appointment. Also, by arranging a deferral letter from the university, admission can be deferred to the next semester.

Many times after the interview, students are stopped under 'Administrative Processing', which may delay the visa. To avoid this, keep the documents complete, and the answer should be clear. This year, lakhs of Indian students are preparing to get admission in American universities. The resumption of the visa process is a big relief, but now the rules and procedures have become more sensitive and strict than before.

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