DOCUMENTS PAGE

Date: 10/7/99

Policy and Procedure INS Payments: Processing

Paperwork and documentation for Visa applications for foreign students, scholars, and/or visitors will be coordinated between the local units and the University International Office.

The International Office will handle the mailing of the applications and checks to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS).

Process

• Local unit gathers background information and completes application
• Local unit completes Web Voucher and requests check payable to INS with a mail site "International Office Holyoke Center"
• Local unit completes AP Special Handling Request Form and includes applicant’s first and last names and their Harvard University affiliation on this form
• Checks cannot be processed without this information on the Special Handling Request Form
• Local unit sends application and supporting documents to International Office
• AP will key in the first and last name of the applicant into the invoice field so that it will appear on the check stub
• AP cuts check and mails to International Office
• International Office reviews application, supporting documentation and check
• International Office mails application and check to INS

Comments

Visa applications are time sensitive and the accompanying documentation that must accompany checks payable to the INS can be cumbersome. Accordingly, it is important that local units comply with the process outlined above.

The International Office receives hundreds of checks designated for the INS. If the individual's name is not included in full on the check stub, there will be no way for the International Office to match the check with the appropriate application.

Source: FAD/ACTTS

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