Important Instructions for Your VISA Application
Practical Guide
Steps to Obtain the VISA
The VISA process is a personal journey. Please read this information carefully in order to complete your application correctly. If you need additional guidance, feel free to contact our office.
Step 1
Print your DS-2019
If you have already received the email from CCUSA with your DS-2019 attached, simply print it in color and bring it to both of your interviews and to the U.S. We recommend you keep the email safe so you can reprint it if needed.
Step 2
Print your SEVIS payment receipt
Print your SEVIS receipt as it is important to present it at the embassy for your VISA application.
- Click on “Check I-901 STATUS”
- Enter the data exactly as it appears on your DS-2019 and click “Check Status”.
- Click on “VIEW PAYMENT CONFIRMATION”.
- Print your SEVIS receipt.
Step 3
Complete Form DS-160
Completing the DS-160 form is your personal responsibility — you must read and answer carefully. Key points to remember:
- The passport type is “Regular”.
- The SEVIS and program numbers are on your DS-2019 and in your Footprints under the VISA section.
- It is very important that when the form asks for VISA type you select “EXCHANGE VISITOR (J)” and then “EXCHANGE VISITOR (J-1)”.
- You must provide your social media profiles; this is mandatory.
Step 4
Schedule your appointment
Create an account at the link below, register all your information including your DS-160, make your payment and schedule your appointment. Remember: there are 2 appointments you must attend at the embassy. For this type of program it is always required to attend both days — that is why even if you are a “Returnee” you must not select “VISA Renewal” in the appointment system. If only one appointment shows, follow the step-by-step instructions to obtain the 2 appointments.
Step 5
Attend your appointment
You must bring the following documents to your interview:
- DS2019.
- DS160.
- Contract (if you do not have it, download your Placement Letter in your Footprints).
- Pasaporte.
- SEVIS payment receipt.
- Certificate of studies (only for Support Staff).
- Also remember: all your social media accounts must be public.