F-1 Visa Interview Documents: 15-Item Checklist for Nepali Students

Preparing your F-1 visa interview documents properly is the first step to a confident interview. This checklist covers every paper Nepali students should carry to the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu.

Walking into the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu with a messy file is one of the easiest ways to get nervous during your F-1 interview. The officer may only ask for one or two papers, but you should carry everything, neatly organized, so you can hand over anything in seconds.

Required documents

Valid passport – valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay, unless an exemption applies.
Form I-20 – issued by your university and signed by you and the DSO. Check that your name matches your passport exactly.
DS-160 confirmation page – with the barcode clearly printed.
Visa appointment confirmation – printed from the appointment system.
SEVIS I-901 fee receipt – proof that you paid the SEVIS fee before the interview.
Visa application (MRV) fee receipt.
Passport-size photo – meeting U.S. visa photo requirements, in case it is requested.

Academic documents

SLC/SEE, +2 and bachelor’s transcripts and certificates (originals and copies)
Test scores: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, SAT, GRE or GMAT, whichever apply
University admission letter and any scholarship letters

Financial documents

Bank balance certificate and bank statements of your sponsor
Education loan approval letter, if you have one
Sponsor’s income sources: salary letters, business registration, tax clearance, rental agreements
Property valuation report, if you are using it as support
Relationship proof with your sponsor (relationship certificate)

Tips for organizing your file

Use a clear folder with labeled sections: identity, academics, finances. Keep originals in the front and photocopies behind them. Never hand over fake or edited documents; consular officers are trained to spot them, and misrepresentation can lead to a permanent visa ban.

Remember, documents support your case, but your answers carry the interview. Be ready to explain in your own words why you chose your university, how your studies will be funded, and what your plans are after graduation.

Frequently Asked Questions About F-1 visa interview documents

What documents are mandatory for the F-1 visa interview?

A valid passport, signed Form I-20, DS-160 confirmation page, appointment confirmation, SEVIS I-901 fee receipt and visa fee receipt. Academic and financial documents are strongly recommended.

Do I need original documents for the F-1 visa interview?

Yes. Carry originals of your academic certificates and financial documents, with photocopies behind them in your folder.

Will the visa officer check all my documents?

Not always. Officers often ask for only one or two documents, but you should carry everything in case they ask.

Related Guides

Official Resources

Rules and fees change often. Always confirm the latest requirements with official sources and with the Designated School Official (DSO) at your university.

Which document are you most worried about for your interview? Tell us in the comments.