Immigration Resources

U.S. Visa Application Process 

Apply for your visa after you receive your official admission documents from Chico State. 

What is Your Visa Type?
All international students will apply for a nonimmigrant student visa:

• Fee-paying students apply for the F-1 visa type.
• Non fee-paying students (exchange visitors) apply for the J-1 visa type. 
• Visiting professors and researchers apply for the J-1 visa type.

Obtain Your Immigration Document (Required for Visa)
Certain documents are required before Chico State can create your I-20 or DS-2019.

Apply for Your U.S. Visa
Official U.S. Department of State website includes: application, instructions, and FAQ's. Here are some Tips for a Successful Visa Interview (PDF) that we have compiled.

Pay SEVIS I-901 Fee
This fee is required to activate your U.S. immigration record (this is in addition to your visa fee).

Visa Appointment Wait Times
Check the current wait time for visa interview appointments at or near your location.
Wait time too long?  Student visa applicants can request an "emergency visa interview." 

Prepare for Your Visa Interview
Tips and tools to help you prepare for this important interview. 

Are you eligible for a visa interview waiver? 

Eligibility criteria include*: 

1. You were previously issued a non-immigrant visa (NIV) in any classification (not including B – visitor’s visa) 
2. Your previous NIV expired no longer than 48 months ago 
3. You are applying for your F-1 or J-1 visa in the country of your nationality or residency 
4. You have not previously been refused a U.S. visa 
5. You have an active SEVIS record 

*Consular officers may still require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis or because of local conditions. Check embassy and consulate websites for more details. 

Additional Immigration Resources

U.S. Embassies and Consulates(opens in new window)

US Citizenship and Immigration Service(opens in new window)

Study in the States(opens in new window)