If an F-1 student plans to renew his or her visa, the following documents are normally required (see below) at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Specific visa application procedures vary so it is highly recommended that a student contacts the U.S. Consular office, or check its website, to obtain the most recent information regarding a visa application process. To search for any U.S. embassy worldwide, visit the following site:
<http://usembassy.state.gov/>
Important:
Student should consult with an ISPS advisor if he or she plans to renew a visa in a country other than his or her home country (Third-country visa renewal). It is risky to apply for visa renewal other than home country and students (other than Mexican nationals) should consult ISPS before considering applying to U.S. Consulate in Nogales, Sonora. Third-country nationals who do not successfully receive visa renewal will not be allowed to re-enter the U.S. and will have to return home from Mexico. Please consult with ISPS advisor.
Required Documents (all must be valid and original copy) at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate:
- Form DS-156
- Form DS-157 (if applicable)
- Form DS-158
- Form I-20(s)
- Travel signature
- Proof of SEVIS fee payment (if applicable)
- Visa application fee (check with your respective consular office for specific payment details)
- Visa reciprocity fees (if applicable)
- Passport with a validity date at least six months into the future
- Financial document showing sufficient funds
- One photograph (51x51mm) showing full face, with head covering, against a light background. Click here to view the photo requirements.
- Official UA transcript or Letter of Enrollment (optional)
For more information on applying for a student visa, please visit <http://travel.state.gov/visa>. | 
