Student / Exchange Visas
Students (F and M) Visas
Student visa applicants must present evidence of their acceptance into an approved educational institution at the time of their interview. Evidence of acceptance includes a valid I-20 form and registration in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Student visa applicants should also bring documentation that demonstrates that they have a residence in El Salvador to which they will return after their stay in the U.S., as well as proof of sufficient funds to cover their educational and living expenses. Click here to learn more about Student Visas.
SEVIS Fee: All student visa applicants must pay the applicable SEVIS fee for the type of study or exchange program in which they wish to participate. More information on SEVIS fees can be found at the SEVIS website www.ice.gov/sevis/.This fee is in addition to the application fee, and may be paid online at www.fmjfee.com or by using Western Union’s Quick Pay service. Click here to learn more information about this fee.
Student visa applicants are encouraged to apply early for their visa to ensure that they will have ample time to receive the visa and travel to the U.S. before their classes begin. The application process may take up to one month in some cases. Student visas can be issued up to 120 days before the start of the program, and students may enter the U.S. up to 45 days in advance of their studies.
If a student visa applicant needs to travel before the next available interview date in order to reach the U.S. before the start of classes, they may request an expedited appointment by calling the Visa Information Center and explaining their need for urgent travel.
Exchange Visitors (J) Visas
All applicants for a J visa must present evidence of their acceptance into an approved exchange visitor program at the time of their interview. Evidence of acceptance includes a valid DS-2019 form sent to the applicant by the US sponsor and registration in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), also all J visa trainee or intern applicants with DS-2019 forms dated on or after July 19, 2007 must also present a DS-7002. J visa applicants may also be asked to supply documentation which verifies their qualifications for their program and establishes that they possess a residence abroad to which they will return following their visit to the US. Click here for more information about exchange visas
SEVIS Fee: All student visa applicants must pay the applicable SEVIS fee for the type of study or exchange program in which they wish to participate. More information on SEVIS fees can be found at the SEVIS website www.ice.gov/sevis/
J visa applicants are encouraged to apply early for their visa to ensure that they will have ample time to receive the visa and travel to the US before their program begins. The application process may take up to one month in some cases. J visas can be issued up to 90 days before the start of the exchange program. If a J visa applicant has to travel before the next available interview time in order to reach the US before the start of their exchange program, please see the section on emergency travel below.
For general information about applying for Nonimmigrant Visas here in El Salvador, please go to How to Apply.