The following information is intended for non-immigrant foreign students, scholars and family members affiliated with Harvard University. For Harvard study abroad programs, please go to the OIP web here

Before planning any travel outside the United States, please read the HIO's Guidelines for travel in and out of the United States or speak to an advisor in the Harvard International Office.

Planning a U.S. Visa Application:

Check Estimated Wait Times from US embassies

Search for a U. S. embassy or consulate

U. S. Visa Application Forms

General application guidance from the U.S. Department of State

For a list of “tips” for a successful visa application from NAFSA: Association of International Educators, go here

Frequently Asked visa Questions (FAQ) and other helpful information from the Department of State Consular Services.

Official State Department “Policy Memos” regarding changes in visa processing

Visa Denials: Were you denied a visa to enter the United States? Review the information on our main Travel Page for changes in government procedures. You may also review the following information from the US Department of State, and contact your advisor in the HIO.

Foreign embassy and consulate posts in the US:

Although there are some web sites that will let you search for a foreign consulate in the United States, it is sometimes best to use internet "yellow pages". The Embassy page takes some navigation, but may help.

Here is a list of Boston area foreign consulates. Click on the letter corresponding with the country of the consulate you are looking for.