Jobs And Interview

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Step 1: The Passport

If you are applying for a U.S. passport for the first time you should apply in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility. You will need an unsigned Application for Passport Form DS-11, as well as Proof of U.S. Citizenship. You will then need to prove your identity using one of the following:
· Previous U.S. passport
· Naturalization Certificate
· Certificate of Citizenship
· Current, valid Driver's license
· Government ID: city, state or federal, Military ID: military and dependents.

Keep in mind that your Social Security Card does not prove your identity.

You will then need two passport photographs that are:
· 2x2 inches in size
· Identical
· Taken within the past 6 months, showing current appearance
· Color or black and white
· Full face, front view with a plain white or off-white background
· Between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head
· Taken in normal street attire

Finally, you will need to pay the applicable fee and provide a Social Security Number. If you do not provide your Social Security Number, the Internal Revenue Service may impose a $500 penalty.

Passport applications generally take 6 weeks, however if you use overnight delivery and pay a higher fee, they can be processed in as little as 2 weeks. Fees for first-time adult passport issuance are $85.00. In addition, the cost of expedited service has increased to $60.00 so be sure to budget accordingly.

Step 2: The VISA

Once you have your passport, contact the nearest Consulate of the country you are going to, and obtain the visa application documents.

The visa may require students to:
· study full-time, with at least 20 hours per week classroom contact time
· attend at least 80% of scheduled classes
· achieve satisfactory progress in all enrolled subjects
· be covered by valid overseas student health coverage

In some cases, an interview may be necessary. Reply truthfully to the questions you are asked by the visa officer. Generally, the visa officer only needs to confirm your purpose of going abroad is to study and that you have sufficient financial ability to cover your tuition fees and living costs. In addition, you will need to show evidence of any sponsorship or scholarship you have gained. They may also need to determine that you intend to return home after you finish your study overseas. If necessary, you may need to demonstrate you have sufficient language skills for your program.

Make sure you have copies of all personal documents for your visa officer to keep. These personal documents may include your photographs, offer letter, valid passport, financial documents, academic qualifications and test scores.

If you already have a vassport or are short on time, you may want to use a "Visa Agency" to obtain your visa for you. These agencies can obtain visas quickly, generally in less than 2 weeks if all documents are provided.

All students traveling abroad should keep in mind that at least one other family member should have a valid passport. In the event of an emergency this can save valuable time and cut down on stress.