US Visa - Significant Change Expected For F, M, And Academic J Visas Process

The USA is committed to making international students a priority. In a recent statement, the government has reported that certain visa categories are scheduled to avoid in-person interviews.  

The categories are as follows: 

• The F visa 
• The M visa 
• The academic J visa  

What does this mean for you? 

Earlier, Secretary Blinken, after consulting with the Department of Homeland Security has temporarily expanded the facility of consular officers to relinquish in-person interviews for those applying for non-immigrant visas.  

Students, teachers, and research scholars can now be assessed without visiting a visa center for an interview. Local consular offices may now, at their own choice, do away with the interview requirement for visa applications.  

This policy will remain in effect until 31 December 2021. Without in-person interviews, this will allow consular staff to continue to process visas while reserving the number of people who visit consular offices. This will also help everyone to practice social distancing and curb the spread of Covid-19.  

Those who wish to apply for any visa service must visit the site of their local consular, or US embassy website for more information.  

The US government acknowledges international students and values the contribution that foreign students have made to their universities and their communities.  

In a recent statement of the US Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs, it read, “The Department recognizes the important contributions these students make to our college and university campuses; the positive impact they have on U.S. communities; and the rich benefits of academic cooperation in increasing cultural understanding, furthering research, knowledge, and supporting U.S. diplomacy.  

The Department is committed to supporting the U.S. academic community while administering U.S. law. The Department also recognizes this is a critical period for students seeking to begin their studies at academic institutions across the United States.” 

 Important information to know:  

Visa Types listed above:  

• The F visa 

The F visa is a US student visa that allows you to study at a university, college, or high school in the USA.  

• The M visa 

The M visa is a US student visa that allows you to study at a vocational or other recognized nonacademic institution, other than a language training program.  

• The academic J visa  

The academic J visa is a US visa for those who wish to participate in student exchange or professional programs.