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:
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- 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:
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- 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:
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- 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:
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- 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):
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- 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:
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- 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).