Office of Graduate & International Admissions

Next Steps to Obtain Your Visa

Dear ${Contacts.First Name},

Congratulations on your admission to SIUE! Now that you have been admitted, you will need to obtain an appropriate U.S. visa. Please follow the steps below:

• Your immigration paperwork (I-20 or DS-2019) is on its way! Once received, check for accuracy. If any information is incorrect, email the Office of Graduate and International Admissions at intladm@siue.edu.
• Pay your SEVIS fee. Instructions are available on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement website. Make sure to type your name and SEVIS ID number exactly as they appear on your I-20 or DS-2019 form. Print a copy of the online payment receipt to keep with your records.
• Schedule your visa appointment. You may schedule your appointment up to 120 days prior to your program start date. Locate the nearest U.S. Consulate or Embassy at usembassy.gov. More information regarding the visa process, including average wait times, is available at the U.S. Department of State website.
• Attend your visa appointment. Be sure to bring all required documents, including your passport (valid at least six months into the future), your I-20 or DS-2019, your SEVIS fee payment receipt, your admission letter, evidence of financial support for one year, and any visa application forms and fees.