USA Non-Immigrant Visa Application Guidance Issued by University of Vermont

The University of Vermont (UVM) has released a detailed and organized Nonimmigrant Visa Application Guide to assist international scholars and employees in navigating the complex U.S. visa process. Whether you’re applying for an H-1B, J-1, TN, or E-3 visa, UVM’s Office of International Education (OIE) has broken down each phase into clear, actionable steps — from documentation to US visa interviews and final approvals. So, if you are interested then lets go through the process.

5 Steps to Apply for US Visa in 2025

University of Vermont released simple 5 steps that one can follow to apply for any of the above mentioned US visas in 2025:

1# Receive Supporting Documents from UVM’s Office of International Education (OIE)

Applicants will first receive specific visa-related documentation based on their visa type:

• • H-1B: I-797 Approval Notice (pre-approved by USCIS).
  • J-1 Scholars: DS-2019 Form (issued via iStart system).
  • TN-2 (Canadian/Mexican professionals): Letter confirming proposed employment.
  • E-3 (Australian nationals): Employment letter + Certified Labor Condition Application.

Tip: Immediately verify the accuracy of your documents and contact OIE for any corrections.

2# Complete Form DS-160 (Online Visa Application)

Applicants must fill out the DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application completely and truthfully. The form will request detailed personal and professional history, including:

• • Immigration history, past addresses
  • Education background
  • Social media handles (past 5 years)

Pay the Visa Fee: Once submitted, you’ll need to pay the standard DS-160 fee online. In some countries, additional issuance fees may apply. Keep your receipt — it’s mandatory for the interview.

3# Schedule and Prepare for Your Visa Interview

Follow DS-160 confirmation instructions to book your visa interview. Then, gather documents specific to your visa classification:

✅ H-1B Visa Applicants:

• • DS-160 confirmation page + Visa fee receipt
  • Valid Passport
  • Original I-797 + Full H-1B petition copy
  • Educational documents (degrees, transcripts)
  • Resume/CV
  • If employed: Recent paystubs or confirmation letter from UVM

✅ J-1 Scholars:

• • DS-160 confirmation page + SEVIS I-901 fee receipt
  • Passport + DS-2019 form
  • Proof of funding + Invitation/Offer letter
  • Optional: Proof of ties to home country

✅ TN Visa (Mexican Citizens):

• • DS-160 confirmation + Visa fee proof
  • Passport + Academic credentials
  • UVM employment confirmation letter
  • Optional: Proof of ties to home country
  • Credential evaluation for foreign degrees (outside U.S./Canada/Mexico)

Pro Tip: Embassies may require additional documents. Always check local consulate guidelines before the interview.

4# Attend Your Visa Interview

Be confident, concise, and clear. You are expected to speak for yourself — no third-party involvement is permitted.

Top Interview Tips:

• • Be brief and to the point — avoid unnecessary elaboration.
  • Remain polite, truthful, and respectful.
  • Articulate how your UVM experience aligns with your career or academic goals.
  • If confused by a question, calmly ask for clarification.

5# Wait for Visa Issuance and Passport Return

After your interview, track your visa status through the U.S. Department of State Visa Wait Times page. Processing times can vary — delays may occur due to Administrative Processing (a secondary review step).

References

• https://www.uvm.edu/oie/applying-nonimmigrant-visa-scholars-and-employees
• https://www.uvm.edu/oie/applying-your-us-student-entry-visa.

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