The F-1 visa application requires documents including your I-20, passport, recent photos, and a record of your travel history from the past 5 years.
Below are the required materials for an F-1 visa application:
1. Visa Photo
You will need both a digital photo for Form DS-160 and at least one physical copy for your interview.
Here are the requirements:
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2x2 inches, in color;
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Taken within the last 6 months, accurately showing your current appearance;
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Plain white or off-white background;
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Facing the camera, full face clearly visible, neutral expression;
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Everyday clothing (religious attire dressed daily is fine, but no uniforms);
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No glasses, unless medically necessary;
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Head centered, with head size about 1 to 1 3/8 inches (24-35mm);
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Eyes 1 1/8 to 1 3/8 inches (28-35mm) from the bottom of the photo;
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Digital file size: minimum 600x600 pixels, maximum 1200x1200 pixels;
Note:
There are now many apps that can be used to take ID photos. However, you should be careful not to overuse the beauty filters. The authenticity of ID photos is crucial, so it is best to go to a photo studio.
2. Passport
The passport should be valid for at least 6 more months, preferably more than 1 year.
3. Travel History for the Past 5 Years (if applicable)
When filling out Form DS-160, you need to list all the countries you have visited in the past 5 years. If you have been to the U.S., it is crucial to fill this information out carefully and accurately.
How to Check Your Past U.S. Travel History:
The most straightforward method is to check the entry and exit stamps in your passport. However, this may not always be reliable due to unclear stamps or recent policies that do not require stamping. To ensure accuracy, you can download your I-94 record from the I-94 website. Form I-94 records your U.S. travel history for the past 10 years. You can complete Form DS-160 based on the entry and exit dates on Your I-94.
4. SEVIS Number on your I-20 or DS-2019 Issued by Your School