F - 1 Visa SEVIS I-20

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Study Visa Issuance Information

A. Required Documents for the Student Visa Process (I-20)
  • Application Form: Completed using the institution’s official format (in both Korean and English).
  • Transcripts and Graduation Certificates: For undergraduate and graduate studies (all documents in English). High school documents are required for those applying for undergraduate programs or ESL.
  • Passport Copy: Copies must be provided for all accompanying family members (passports with less than one year of validity must be renewed).
  • Photographs: Two passport-sized photos of the applicant.
  • Recommendation Letter: One letter of recommendation (the format is included in the application form).
  • Bank Statement: Proof of funds showing a minimum of $100,000 for a family of four or $50,000 for an individual (must be issued in English).
  • Application Fee: $100.
  • I-901 Form Fee (SEVIS Fee) : US$ 350
  • International Student Maintenance Fee : $200 for the first semester; $100 for each subsequent semester.
  • Document Handling Fee : US$ 100
B. Required Documents for the Student Visa Interview (for U.S. Embassy Appointment)
  • 1. Original Passports: For all accompanying family members (passports with less than one year of validity must be renewed, including expired passports).
  • 2. Visa Application Photo: One photo (5x5 cm, with a white background) for each family member.
  • 3. Visa Application Fee Receipt: $131 per applicant and accompanying family member (bring a passport copy and purchase at Shinhan Bank).
  • 4. I-20 and Admission Letter: From Midwest University.
  • 5. I-901 Form Fee Receipt: $350 receipt (from the Midwest University Seoul Office).
  • 6. Certificates: Enrollment, leave of absence, graduation certificates, and transcripts from universities (all documents in English).
  • 7. High School Documents: Transcripts and graduation certificates (in English) for undergraduate and ESL applicants.
  • 8. Original Bank Statements:

    i) Statements from an actively used bank account (including savings accounts, as many accounts as possible).

    ii) Financial Sponsor’s Bank Statement

  • 9. Military Discharge Certificate: For those discharged within the last two years.
  • 10. Family Registry Copy: A single copy that includes all family members.
Additional Required Documents for the Applicant (if applicable) For Employed Individuals:
  • Employment Verification Letter
  • ncome Statement: One year of income documentation, issued by the tax office.
  • Local Tax Payment Verification
  • Copy of Health Insurance Card
  • Family Registry Copy
For Pastors and Evangelists:
  • Compensation Payment Statement: One year of records.
  • Financial Guarantee Letter: From the church, presbytery, conference, or local council.
  • Church Business Registration Certificate
  • Church Budget and Financial Statement: For one year.
  • Return Guarantee Letter: From the church.
  • Church Employment Verification Letter: From the general assembly, presbytery, local council, or conference.
  • Recent Church Bulletin
  • Family Registry Copy

Note: Applicants must schedule their visa interview directly with the U.S. Embassy (either online or by phone).

Required Documents for Financial Sponsors (for relatives) If the financial sponsor is employed:
  • Employment Verification Letter
  • Income Statement: One year of income documentation, issued by the tax office.
  • Local Tax Payment Verification
  • Family Registry Copy: Including any canceled or removed members.
  • Financial Guarantee Agreement: If the sponsor is a relative.
If the financial sponsor is a business owner:
  • Business Registration Certificate: Issued by the tax office.
  • Income Statement: Issued by the tax office.
  • Tax Payment Verification: Issued by the tax office.
  • Local Tax Payment Verification: Issued by the local government office.
C. Preparations After Receiving the Study Visa
  • I-20 Form: Make six copies for your records, as this will be needed for the university, health insurance, national pension, military reserve, civil defense, and your child’s school, among others.
  • Documents for Accompanying Children: Prepare translated documents, including vaccination records from birth to the present, current school graduation certificates, enrollment verification, transcripts, and report cards. These should be carried when entering the U.S. and submitted to the school your child will attend.
  • Arrival at the University: Students must arrive at the university at least one week before the semester starts. During this time, they should stay in the dormitory and prepare for life in the U.S. by registering for classes, taking the driver’s license test, opening a bank account, and purchasing a vehicle.
  • International Driver's License: Obtain an international driver’s license by converting your current license before departure (available at the driver’s licensing office).
  • University Registration: Complete all registration procedures one week prior to departure. Tuition for one semester and ESL fees must be paid before leaving.
  • Mandatory ESL Enrollment: Students in degree programs are required to enroll in ESL courses. (Students with a TOEFL score of 550 or higher are exempt from ESL.)
  • Documents to Carry Upon Departure: Bring the original passport, original I-20 document, and receipt for tuition payment.