NonImmigrant visas

NonImmigrant Visa Information: Students

GENERAL INFORMATION

The visa application process is straightforward and there is no need to pay for additional services.  Please inform the Embassy if someone asks for a bribe so that we can take appropriate action.  Additional information on how to apply is available on the Embassy website, http://yaounde.usembassy.gov/how_to_apply_niv.html

Nonimmigrant visa interviews are held by appointment only.  To schedule an appointment, you must first complete the online application then you may request an appointment. To find the online application and the online appointment system please visit: http://yaounde.usembassy.gov/visa_services.html .  You must use the barcode number from the completed online application form to make the online appointment. We no longer accept appointment requests by e-mail or phone.  If you are experiencing difficulties with the online appointment system please send an e-mail to YaoundeNIV@ state.gov. We will assist with the online appointment system; however, we will not schedule an appointment request based on an e-mail.

Once you have an appointment date and time for your interview, please pay attention to these instructions.  To be admitted for your visa interview, you must be present at the Embassy with all required forms fully completed online, plus your photos and fees, on that date and at that time.  Latecomers will be denied entry and must make another appointment to pursue a visa application. 

Please do not forget to bring the final page of the form which is identifiable by the large barcode. Please be sure that on the third page of the electronic application, the barcode is clear. If the barcode is not clear, you must reprint the application on another printer. If we are unable to read the barcode, we may not be able to process your application and you may need to reschedule your appointment. Please note that applicants who arrive at the Consular Section without their own completed application forms in hand will not be interviewed and will have to reschedule their interview appointments.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR A STUDENT VISA

Student applications often require additional processing time. Therefore, students should apply as soon as possible, but not more than 120 days prior to the date on which they are required to be at the school.  Applicants must provide the following:

1.       A DS-156 Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form completed electronically on http://evisaforms.state.gov
2.       Completed supplemental application DS-158 – online: http://foia.state.gov/FORMS/visa/ds0158.pdf
3.       Males between the ages of 16 and 45 also need form DS-157 – available online at http://foia.state.gov/FORMS/visa/ds0157.pdf
4.       Original Form I-20 and original acceptance letter from the U.S. school.
5.       Proof of funding for studies, including the last six months of the bank account, which must  include an  Affidavit of Support and bank documents including a bank attestation showing sufficient funds for at least the first year study (the sum marked on the I-20). 
6.        Transcripts from previous studies (e.g., for university study in the U.S., students should present secondary and high school transcripts and “O” and “A” level certificates or other exam results).

Please, note that presentation of the above documents does not guarantee visa issuance. Besides the standard forms, returning students need only a valid or updated I-20, accompanied by an official school letter if the I-20 has expired.  

Important Note: The Consular Officer will review these documents and interview the applicant.  The Consular Officer may also request to see bank statements, property or business papers, etc., in order to verify statements made on the application.  All applicants will be electronically fingerprinted. Based on the interview and the documents the Consular Officer will evaluate the applicant’s eligibility for a visa.