US Student Visa (F-1)
To study in the US, you need an I-20 and SEVIS.
About visa
The U.S. Student Visa (F-1) is for citizens of Georgia who wish to study in an academic program in the United States. This is the most common nonimmigrant visa category for foreign students enrolled in U.S. schools, colleges, universities, seminaries, conservatories, or other academic institutions, including language programs.
To be eligible for an F-1 visa, an applicant must be enrolled full-time in a program of study approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). The applicant must also have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses and must intend to return to Georgia upon completion of their studies. Obtaining a U.S. visa , especially a student visa, requires detailed preparation and a demonstration of clear goals.
The F-1 visa allows students to remain in the United States for the duration of their program, plus a 60-day grace period. This is known as the “Duration of Status” (D/S). Unlike an Australian student visa , where the visa is issued for a specific period of time, the validity of an F-1 visa is determined by the length of your program of study. F-1 visa holders are allowed to work on campus for limited hours (up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays) and can also apply for a practical training permit (CPT/OPT) during or after their studies. However, full-time off-campus work without a permit is strictly prohibited.
To obtain this visa, you must appear for an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi. It is important to demonstrate your academic goals, financial stability, and strong ties to your home country during the interview. Common reasons for denial include insufficient financial resources, doubt about your intention to remain in the U.S., or insufficient ties to Georgia. Similar to a Canadian student visa , financial documentation and clarity of study plan are crucial.
Unlike the F-1 visa, the U.S. Exchange Visa (J-1) is intended for exchange program participants, such as students, researchers, or professors participating in approved cultural and educational exchange programs. If your goal is to reunite with family in the U.S. or to move to the U.S. permanently, you should consider a U.S. Fiancé/Spouse Visa (K-1/K-3) or a U.S. Immigrant Visa (IV) .
GetVisa.ge offers full support in preparing your US student visa (F-1) application, including gathering documentation, completing the DS-160 form, and preparing for the interview, to maximize your chances of success. Our experts will help you showcase the strengths of your case.
Required Documents
📄Basic Documents
💰Financial Documents
🛡️Civil and Security Documents
📋Other Documents
Application Process
Acceptance from a SEVP-approved school and receipt of Form I-20
First, you must receive an acceptance from a U.S. educational institution that is approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Once accepted, the school will send you an I-20 form, which is required to apply for an F-1 visa.
SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment
After you receive your Form I-20, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. Keep your receipt because you will need it for your visa interview.
Filling out the DS-160 application
Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) online. This is a required step for all F-1 visa applicants. After completing it, print the confirmation page.
Payment of the visa fee (MRV Fee)
Pay the visa application fee (MRV Fee) according to the instructions on the U.S. Embassy website. Keep your receipt.
Schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi
After payment, schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi. Choose a date and time that is convenient for you. Make sure you bring all required documents.
Appearing for an interview
Arrive for your interview at the scheduled time. Bring all original documents, including your passport, Form I-20, SEVIS and MRV fee receipts, DS-160 confirmation page, photo, and financial/academic documents. Be prepared to discuss your study plan and goals for studying in the United States.
Visa decision making
After the interview, a consular officer will make a decision on your F-1 visa application. If approved, your passport with the visa will be returned to you within a few weeks. If denied, you will be given an explanation of the reason for the denial.
Important Tips & Advice
Processing Fees
Visa Application Fee (MRV Fee)
This is a mandatory fee that must be paid before you can apply for a nonimmigrant visa. The fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
SEVIS I-901 Fee
The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee is a mandatory fee for all F and J visa applicants. This fee ensures that you are tracked during your study or exchange program in the United States. Official rates are subject to change, so check with your U.S. embassy or the official SEVIS website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a US student visa (F-1) and who is it for?
The F-1 student visa is for citizens of Georgia who wish to study in academic programs in the United States. It allows students to enroll in SEVP-approved educational institutions, such as universities, colleges, or language schools, on a full-time basis.
Can I work in the US with an F-1 visa?
Yes, F-1 visa holders may work on campus up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during the holidays. You may also apply for a practical training permit (CPT/OPT) during or after your studies. Off-campus work without a permit is prohibited.
What is the SEVIS fee and why is it required?
The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee is a mandatory fee for all F and J visa applicants. This fee funds a system that monitors students and exchange program participants during their stay in the United States to ensure that their status is protected.
How long can I stay in the US on an F-1 visa?
With an F-1 visa, you can stay in the U.S. for the duration of your study program, plus a 60-day grace period after the program ends. This is known as “duration of status” (D/S).
What are the common reasons for being denied an F-1 visa interview?
Common reasons include insufficient financial resources to cover study and living expenses, insufficient demonstration of strong ties to the home country that casts doubt on the intention to return, or unconvincing answers during the interview. It is important that your intentions are clear and consistent.
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