VISA INFORMATION

UMBC welcomes international students and provides comprehensive support to ensure they meet U.S. visa requirements. The Office of International Education Services (IES) assists students throughout the visa application process, from initial preparation to maintaining legal status while in the U.S.

Types of Visas:

  1. F-1 Student Visa:

    • For students enrolled in full-time academic programs.
    • Most common visa type for international students at UMBC.

  2. J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa:

    • For students participating in exchange programs or receiving specific funding.
    • Used by exchange students, government-sponsored students, and research scholars.

Steps to Obtain an F-1 or J-1 Visa:

  1. Receive Admission from UMBC:

    • Apply and be accepted into a full-time program at UMBC.

  2. Obtain Form I-20 or DS-2019:

    • After admission, UMBC issues:
      • I-20 Form: For F-1 visa applicants.
      • DS-2019 Form: For J-1 visa applicants.
    • Submit required financial documentation to demonstrate sufficient funding for tuition and living expenses.

  3. Pay the SEVIS Fee:

    • Pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee online at FMJfee.com.
    • Retain the receipt for your visa application.

  4. Schedule a Visa Appointment:

    • Schedule an appointment at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
    • Prepare required documents, including:
      • Form I-20 or DS-2019.
      • SEVIS fee receipt.
      • UMBC admission letter.
      • Valid passport.
      • Completed Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application).
      • Evidence of financial support (e.g., bank statements, sponsorship letters).

  5. Attend the Visa Interview:

    • Be prepared to discuss your academic plans, ties to your home country, and intention to return after completing your studies.

  6. Receive Your Visa:

    • Once approved, the visa will be stamped in your passport.

Maintaining Visa Status:

  1. Enrollment Requirements:

    • Maintain full-time enrollment (12 credits for undergraduates, 9 credits for graduates).
    • Notify IES of any changes to your academic program or personal information.

  2. Work Authorization:

    • On-campus employment is allowed (up to 20 hours per week during the semester).
    • Off-campus work requires authorization through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).

  3. Travel:

    • Ensure your visa and I-20/DS-2019 are valid before traveling internationally.
    • Obtain a travel signature from IES for reentry into the U.S.

  4. SEVIS Updates:

    • Keep your SEVIS record up to date by reporting changes in address, program, or funding to IES.

Support and Resources:

UMBC’s IES office is dedicated to helping students navigate the visa process and maintain compliance with U.S. immigration regulations. For more details, visit the IES website.