Applying for an F-1 Visa in a Third Country: What You Need to Know

You may apply for an F-1 visa appointment as a third-country national (TCN); however, doingso is subject to the discretion and policies of the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you apply. Please consider the risks:

First, appointment wait times are often significantly longer, as U.S. embassies and consulates in third countries tend to have limited availability for non-resident applicants. Second, consular officers may apply heightened scrutiny to third-country applicants, particularly concerning their ties to their home country and their intent to return after completing their studies. This increased scrutiny can raise the likelihood of a visa denial. Finally, if your application is refused in a third country, you are generally required to return to your home country to reapply, which can lead to considerable delays, added expenses, and disruption to your academic plans.