The electronic transfer of a SEVIS record itself is instantaneous.
Understanding the SEVIS Transfer Timeline
While the act of transferring the SEVIS record between institutions is an immediate electronic process, the complete process of receiving a new I-20 form at your new school involves an additional step that takes some time.
Here's a breakdown of the timeline:
- Electronic SEVIS Record Transfer: Your SEVIS record is sent to your new school electronically on your designated transfer release date. This electronic transfer happens instantaneously.
- New I-20 Creation: After the electronic record has been released to your new institution, it will take some time for them to process your information and create your new Form I-20. The duration for this step can vary depending on the specific policies and processing times of the receiving school.
To summarize the two key phases:
| Aspect | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| SEVIS Record Transfer | Instantaneous | The electronic transfer of your SEVIS record to your new school occurs immediately on the release date. |
| New I-20 Issuance | Varies (some time) | The time required for your new school to process your record and issue your updated Form I-20. |
It's crucial to coordinate closely with both your current and new international student offices to ensure a smooth transfer process and understand their specific timelines for issuing the new I-20.
