Canadian Citizens
If you are a citizen of Canada, then you are NOT required to obtain a visa to enter the U.S.
You are, however, required to enter the U.S. under J-1 status. This means that when you exit Canada, whether by air or ground, you will be required to present the following to immigration officials to ensure that you enter the U.S. as a J-1 exchange student:
- DS 2019
- Acceptance Letter
- Valid Passport
- Receipt of payment for your SEVIS fee (instructions will be mailed to you with your DS-2019)
- Immigration officials must present you with an 1-94 document, which you will keep so that you may enter the U.S. and exit the U.S. upon completion of your program.
Non-Canadian Citizens (Residents of Canada)
If you are not a citizen of Canada, and are a resident of Canada, you will need to schedule an appointment to request your student visa at your local U.S. Embassy/Consular office. Please note that this is a lengthy process and you must initiate it immediately. You must take with you all supporting documents that the U.S. Embassy/Consular office may need.