Visa Information

Visa Types

Find the relevant information for your specific visa type.

Change of Address

You are required to notify DHS of any change in your residential address.

Reduced Course Load

Students must request a Reduced Course Load (RCL) if they meet the criteria outlined by immigration regulations. 

B-1/B-2 Visitor Visas

The B-1 and B-2 visas are for business and pleasure/tourism visitors, respectively.

Apply for U.S. Visa in Canada or Mexico

Learn more about applying for a nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. consular post in Canada or Mexico.

Visa Issuance and Security Clearance

Security clearance procedures may cause delays in the visa application process.

SEVIS

SEVIS is an electronic reporting system for all students, scholars, student-interns, and dependents.

U.S. Entry Restrictions

Learn more about customs limitations.

UMN Credit Requirement

The University requires a minimum of 13 credits per semester for undergraduate degree-seeking students.

U.S. and State Government Agencies

These government agencies may have helpful information.

Important Documents

Social Security Number

For tax purposes, anyone receiving income must provide a Social Security number to their U.S. employer.

Form I-9

The I-9 verifies your eligibility to work in the U.S. You cannot be paid until the I-9 has been satisfied.

Identification Documents

You will need to get a U Card and decide if you will get a state ID or driver's license.

Visa Documents

These important legal documents are needed to enter the country.

Travel

F-1 Students

Requirements for traveling outside and within the U.S.

J-1 Students

Requirements for traveling outside and within the U.S.

J-1 Scholars

Requirements for traveling outside and within the U.S.

J-1 Student-Interns

Requirements for traveling outside and within the U.S.

H-1B Visa Holders

Requirements for traveling outside and within the U.S.

Studying Abroad

International students have special requirements to consider when studying abroad.

U.S. Entry Restrictions

Learn more about customs limitations.

Legal

Finding an Attorney

We cannot make specific referrals, but these resources may help you locate an attorney.

Participating in Protests

Non-citizens have several factors to consider when deciding whether to participate in a protest.

Taxes

Resources to help you file your tax returns or answer tax-related questions.

Living in Minnesota

Banking

It is important that you learn about the U.S. banking system including currency exchange, bank accounts, and debit cards.

Climate and Clothing

The weather in Minnesota varies a lot depending on the time of year. You can make the most of it by being prepared.

Health and Insurance

All international students must purchase the Student Health Benefit Plan unless they are eligible for a waiver.

Identification Documents

You will need to get a U Card and decide if you will get a state ID or driver's license.

Safety

The University of Minnesota works hard to ensure that campus and the surrounding neighborhoods are safe for students.

Transportation

You can explore public transportation, use the University buses, or ride a bike to get around campus.

Housing

There are a variety of housing options available for students both on-campus and off-campus.

Campus Resources

Health and Fitness

The University of Minnesota has an on-campus clinic, mental health support, and state-of-the-art recreation facilities.

English Language Support

The Minnesota English Language Program, Tandem Plus, and more are here to help you.

Disability Resource Center

The DRC is committed to making the University accessible and inviting for all students and community members.

LGBTQIA+ Support

Discover the many services and resources available to LGBTQIA+ students.

Translating and Interpreting Resources

ISSS cannot provide general assistance with translation projects. The M Global website has information about locating a translator.

Resources for Surveying International Students or Staff

Learn more about surveying international students and staff.

Resources for Students and Scholars During a Crisis in Their Home Country

These resources are available to international students and scholars during a crisis in their home country.

ISSS Fees and Refunds

The International Student Support Services Fee and the International Student Engagement Fee are charged to all temporary non-immigrant international students in F-1, J-1, J-2, and other visa statuses.

Publications (Guides, Handbooks, Emails, and Reports)

Pre-Arrival Guide

Helps you prepare for your arrival at the University of Minnesota and outlines the actions you need to take

Arrival Guide

Outlines the requirements to complete once you have arrived on campus

Undergraduate Advisor Guide

Information and resources to help advisors assist undergraduate international students during the first semester

Graduate Advisor Guide

Information and resources to help graduate and professional school staff assist international students during the first semester

ISSS Emails for Students/Scholars

ISSS publishes email newsletters for international students and scholars.

Email Subscriptions for Departments/Staff

Sign up to receive emails from ISSS about international students and/or scholars and employment-based visa holders.

ISSS Annual Report

The ISSS annual report features statistics about international students and scholars and summaries of ISSS's services and programs.