A clear, step-by-step guide to the F-1 student visa and B1/B2 visitor visa process — covering the DS-160, fees, appointments, documents and interview preparation.
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The visa requirements and fees South African F-1 applicants.
US$185
Non-refundable application processing fee (DS-160 fee).
US$350
Required fee to be registered in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System.
A comprehensive 10-step guide for South African students applying for a US F-1 student visa.
During your visa interview, the consular officer will determine whether you are qualified to receive a visa. They may ask about various aspects of your application, including:
"The goal is not to memorize a script. The goal is to understand your own application and answer honestly, clearly and naturally."
A visa is not a guarantee of admission to the United States. Admission is determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the port of entry.
The B1/B2 is the nonimmigrant visa South Africans most often apply for to travel to the United States temporarily. It combines two purposes — business and tourism — into a single, versatile travel document.
Travel for business activities, including attending scientific, educational, professional, or business conventions, or negotiating contracts.
Tourism, vacation, visiting friends or relatives, medical treatment, and participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations.
What it is NOT forTo maintain the integrity of your travel plans, it's crucial to understand the limitations. This visa does not permit:
The typical step-by-step pathway South African applicants follow to secure a US visitor visa.
Ensure the B1/B2 category accurately reflects your travel intentions.
Complete the DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) accurately and print the confirmation page — this is the step we help South African applicants get right the first time.
Submit the non-refundable visa application fee payment.
Carefully review specific instructions from your U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply.
Book your interview/appointment at the applicable U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Gather all necessary documentation and evidence to support your application.
Present your case confidently during your consular interview.
Await the final processing and decision on your visa application.
Arriving prepared is half the journey. Ensure you have these essential documents ready for your application and interview.
Please verify with your U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply, as accommodation and additional fees may vary by location.
"The U.S. Department of State mentions that there is no 100% guarantee a visa will be issued." We're here to give you the best chance possible with the consular officer.
Answers to what South African applicants ask us most about the F-1 and B1/B2 process.
The DS-160 is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application required for every F-1 and B1/B2 applicant. It asks for your personal, travel, and background details, and the confirmation page is needed for your appointment. We review your DS-160 with you before submission to catch errors that commonly lead to delays or refusals.
It depends on your visa category. F-1 applicants need their passport, DS-160 confirmation, Form I-20, SEVIS fee receipt and academic records. B1/B2 applicants need a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation, application fee receipt, and evidence of their travel purpose and ties to South Africa. We review your full document set before your appointment.
Once your DS-160 is submitted and your fee is paid, you book your biometrics and interview appointment through the official U.S. Embassy or Consulate booking system for your region. We'll guide you through this step and help you understand current wait times.
A refusal doesn't permanently bar you from reapplying. We'll review the reason given, help you identify what was missing or unclear in your case, and strengthen your documentation and interview preparation before you apply again.
Yes. Parents, family members, or an organisation can sponsor your studies, provided you can show clear evidence of the relationship and the sponsor's ability to cover your costs. This is typically reflected on your I-20 and supported with bank statements or an affidavit of support.
Consular officers look for ties that show you intend to depart the US after your trip or studies — things like employment, property, family commitments, or enrolment plans back home. We help you organise this evidence clearly for both your application and interview.
The government application fee is US$185 for both the F-1 and B1/B2 categories. F-1 applicants also pay a US$350 I-901 SEVIS fee. These are official fees payable to the US government and are separate from any preparation service you choose with us.
