Student Visa

Obtaining Drivers License, Social Security Number

On January 17, 2012, the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) issued information on obtaining a Drivers Licence or Social Security Number in the US: “Timing is Everything: Getting Your Driver’s License or Social Security Number.” SEVP issued this information to underline best practices for incoming F, M and J visa holders because they often apply for a drivers license or Social Security Number (SSN) either too early after entering the US or without the proper documentation. In addition, SEVP also issued a FAQ on obtaining a US Drivers License or State Identification Card. (more…)

DOS Halts Student Visa Issuance

Effective immediately (November 14, 2011), the Department of State (DOS) has temporarily halted student visa issuance (F visas, M visas and J visas) at all US Embassies and Consulates around the world. DOS has recently identified difficulties with its Consolidated Consular Database (CCD) communicating with the Student and Exchange Visitor Program’s (SEVP) Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). DOS discovered this issue November 14, 2011.

SEVP and DOS are investigating this issue to resolve it as quickly as possible. This may alter prospective F Student Visa holders’ or J-1 Visa visitors’ travel schedules. SEVP will send updates on this issue as soon as possible.

US Embassy Tokyo Visa Appointments

As of March 18, 2011, US Embassy Tokyo advises that they are only processing emergency visa cases due to the recent events in Japan. Some nonimmigrant visa applicants with approaching deadlines, such as students, and individuals already scheduled for nonimmigrant work visa appointments may keep their interview appointments.  See below for more detail. (more…)