Step 4 - Obtain passport photo and gather supporting documents:

You will need one passport-sized photograph that is less than six months old. The photo should be in color, 2 inches x 2 inches (5 x 5 cm) on a plain background. It should be a front view, showing your full face. You can find details on photo requirements here.

Certain visa classes require original, official documents provided by your sponsor in the U.S.:

• Student (F) visa applicants must have an I-20 from the intended school;
• Exchange visitor (J) visa applicants must have a DS-2019 from the program sponsor;
• Acceptance letter from your visa sponsor and/or copy of your job placement letter in the U.S., if applicable;
• If your J program requires that you are enrolled full-time at a tertiary institution, a letter from your institution confirming your full-time student status or a copy of your transcripts (unofficial web version is fine.)
• Work visa (H, L, O, P, Q, R) applicants must have an I-797 approved petition notice, although a legible photocopy is acceptable.

You will be required to prove to the satisfaction of the Consular Officer that you do not intend to remain in the U.S. after your legitimate purpose of travel has ended. This may require demonstrating strong social, economic, family and financial ties to New Zealand. It may be necessary to provide some of the following:

• Letters of employment;
• Proof of ongoing academic studies;
• Proof of funds, i.e. bank statements, asset statements;
• Evidence of ownership of property.
• If visiting relatives, it is helpful to show that they are themselves in the U.S. in legal status.

Please note that supporting documents can vary from person to person depending on your personal situation.

Proceed to Step 5 →