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Introduction

The process of obtaining a U.S. student visa can be straightforward, especially when you understand the SEVIS fee. The SEVIS fee stands for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System training process, which is an integral part of the international student visa application process. Having a solid understanding of the SEVIS fee will facilitate your U.S. student visa process. This blog will explain everything you need to know about the SEVIS fee and the U.S. student visa process to support you in this critical component of your educational experience.

What Is the SEVIS Fee?

The SEVIS Fee is an obligatory fee that international students and exchange visitors will need to remit to the United States government prior to submitting their application for a U.S. visa. The degree "SEVIS" stands for the "Student and Exchange Visitor Information System Fee," and provides funding for the system that will monitor the statuses of students and exchange visitors to the United States. The purpose of the fee is to ensure students and exchange visitors will comply with laws and regulations while remaining in the United States with student or exchange visitor visas.

The SEVIS Fee is an essential part of the application process because it must be paid before students and exchange visitors receive an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. The fee is required for F-1 and M-1 visa applicants and their dependents, as well as for J-1 visa applicants and their dependents.

Who Needs to Pay the SEVIS Fee?

Most international students and exchange visitors who want to study or participate in an approved program are responsible for the SEVIS Fee, which is the first thing that a student or exchange visitor must do before applying for a visa. The SEVIS Fee indicates that you have registered in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).

Here's a simple breakdown of who needs to pay it:

• F-1 and M-1 Visa Applicants:
• Suppose you're an international student planning to attend a U.S. college, university, high school, or vocational school. In that case, you'll need to pay the SEVIS fee after receiving your Form I-20 from your school.
• J-1 Visa Applicants:
• If you're coming to the U.S. as an exchange visitor—such as a researcher, professor, intern, or trainee—you'll need to pay the fee after getting your Form DS-2019 from your program sponsor.
• Students or Exchange Visitors Changing Their Status:
• If you're already in the U.S. and are switching to an F, M, or J visa category, you'll also need to pay the SEVIS fee.

Not everyone is obligated to pay, though. For instance, certain J-1 exchange visitors in government-funded programs may not be required to pay this fee. Suppose you are an international student or exchange visitor coming to the United States for study, research, or training. In that case, you will likely have to pay the SEVIS fee—it's your first official step toward starting a study, research, or training program in the United States.

How Much Is the SEVIS Fee?

The amount you need to pay for the SEVIS fee depends on the type of visa you're applying for. The U.S. government sets different fees for different visa categories to cover the cost of maintaining the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)—the database that keeps track of international students and exchange visitors while they are in the United States.

Here's a simple breakdown:

[Learn More: Organize, Apply, Achieve Your F1 Visa Document Checklist]

When and How to Pay the SEVIS Fee

You need to pay the SEVIS Fee after receiving your Form I-20 (for F-1 or M-1 visa applicants) or Form DS-2019 (for J-1 visa applicants). This payment must be made before your visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. It's best to pay the fee at least three days before your interview, so it has enough time to process.

When to Pay the SEVIS Fee

You should pay the SEVIS Fee as soon as you get your I-20 or DS-2019 form from your U.S. school or program sponsor. Without paying this fee, your visa application will not move forward. The payment confirms that your SEVIS record has been created and that you are officially recognized as a student or exchange visitor in the system.

How to Pay the SEVIS Fee

You can pay the SEVIS Fee online through the official SEVIS I-901 website. This is the only authorized platform for SEVIS payments, so make sure you use the correct website to avoid scams.

Here's how the payment process works:

1. Go to the SEVIS I-901 website and start your payment.
2. Enter your SEVIS ID number (it begins with "N" and is printed on your I-20 or DS-2019 form).
3. Please provide your personal details exactly as they appear on your form.
4. Choose your payment method – you can use a credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover). If you don't have one, you can also pay through Western Union Quick Pay.
5. Submit your payment and wait for confirmation.

Documents Required for SEVIS Fee Payment

Before you pay the SEVIS Fee, it's essential to have all the necessary documents ready. These documents ensure that your payment is processed correctly and that your information matches your visa application. Having everything prepared in advance can save you time and help avoid mistakes.

Here's what you'll need:

1. Form I-20 or Form DS-2019

This is the most critical document.

• Form I-20 is issued to F-1 or M-1 visa applicants (students).
• Form DS-2019 is issued to J-1 visa applicants (exchange visitors).
• Both forms contain your SEVIS ID number, which starts with the letter "N" (for example, N0012345678). You'll need this number to complete your SEVIS payment.

2. Valid Passport

Your passport is required for entering personal details exactly as they appear in your visa documents. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.

[Read More: Clear Answers Ahead The F-1 Visa Interview Questions to Practice]

3. Personal Information

You'll need to provide accurate details such as your full name, date of birth, address, and country of citizenship. This information must match your I-20 or DS-2019 form to avoid any issues.

4. Payment Method

You can pay the SEVIS Fee using one of the following methods:

• Credit or Debit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover)
• Western Union Quick Pay (if you don't have a card or prefer to pay in cash)
• Third-party payment (someone else, such as a family member, can pay on your behalf)

5. Internet Access and Printer

Since the SEVIS Fee is paid online, you'll need a reliable internet connection to access the official payment website. After payment, print your confirmation receipt. You must bring this receipt to your visa interview and U.S. port of entry as proof of payment.

After Paying the SEVIS Fee

everything goes smoothly with your visa application. Paying the fee is just one part of the process — confirming your payment and keeping the proper documents ready are just as important.

Here's what happens after you pay the SEVIS Fee:

1. Get Your SEVIS Fee Payment Confirmation

After completing your payment on the official SEVIS I-901 website (fmjfee.com), you'll receive a confirmation receipt. This is proof that your payment was successful.

• You'll see the option to print or download your receipt right after payment.
• If you paid through Western Union, it might take a few days for the payment to be processed before your receipt becomes available.
• Make sure to print multiple copies of your receipt — you'll need them for your records and for your visa process.

2. Keep the Receipt Safe

Your SEVIS Fee receipt is an essential document. You'll need to present it:

• During your visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
• When you enter the United States, immigration officers may ask for it at the port of entry.

If you lose it, you can always reprint it by visiting the SEVIS I-901 website and logging in with your SEVIS ID.

3. Schedule Your Visa Interview

Once your SEVIS Fee is paid, you can go ahead and book your visa interview. You'll need the following documents for your appointment:

• Your passport
• Your Form I-20 or DS-2019
• Your SEVIS Fee receipt
• Your visa application confirmation page (DS-160)

4. Check the Status of Your SEVIS Record

In rare cases, it's a good idea to confirm that your payment has been correctly linked to your SEVIS record. You can do this by contacting your Designated School Official (DSO) or program sponsor. They can verify that your SEVIS status is active and ready for your visa interview.

Never throw away your SEVIS Fee receipt — even after you arrive in the U.S. You may need it later for school check-in or immigration purposes. Keeping both printed and digital copies is the safest approach.

SEVIS Fee and U.S. Visa Application Connection

In your U.S. visa application process, the SEVIS Fee serves an essential purpose. Specifically, you cannot receive a student (F-1 or M-1) or exchange visitor (J-1) visa until after you have paid for it. You may think of it as the first formal step to study or participate as an exchange student in the United States. You, your school or program, and the U.S. government are linked through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).

Here's how the SEVIS Fee and visa application are connected:

1. SEVIS Creates Your Record

When a U.S. school or sponsor accepts you, they issue a Form I-20 (for F or M visas) or Form DS-2019 (for J visas). These forms create your record in the SEVIS database and include your unique SEVIS ID number.

Before you can apply for your visa, you must activate your SEVIS record by paying the SEVIS Fee.

2. SEVIS Fee Payment Confirms Your Intent

Paying the SEVIS Fee shows the U.S. government that you intend to enroll in a certified school or exchange program. It confirms your spot in SEVIS and allows your record to stay active while your visa application is processed.

Without this payment, your visa application will not be accepted — even if you have completed the DS-160 form or scheduled your interview.

3. You Need Proof of Payment for Your Visa Interview

After paying the SEVIS Fee, you'll receive a payment confirmation receipt. This receipt is a required document for your visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

During the interview, the consular officer may ask to see this receipt to verify that your SEVIS record is active and your fee has been paid.

4. SEVIS Record and Visa Approval

Once your visa is approved, your SEVIS record stays connected to your visa details. When you enter the U.S., immigration officers will use your SEVIS ID to confirm your status in the system and verify that you're entering for the right purpose — study or exchange.

5. SEVIS Fee and Visa Denials

If your visa is denied, your SEVIS Fee payment cannot be refunded. However, if you reapply for the same program within 12 months, you don't have to pay the fee again.

[Explore More: Your US Study Dream Starts Here The J-1 Visa Application Journey]

Conclusion

The SEVIS Fee is an essential component of the U.S. student visa application process. It guarantees that your record is created and well-kept in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) to monitor, assist, and support international students while they are in the U.S. The fee is NOT optional; it must be paid in advance of the visa interview and signifies that you are PERSONALLY applying to study in the United States.

Overall, the SEVIS Fee is the connection between you, your U.S. school, and the government. It represents the first official step of your academic journey to the U.S. Paying the fee as soon as possible, keeping a copy of the receipt in a safe place, and ensuring all name and personal identifiers match any documentation or online administrator access, as in the visa interview, will make the student visa application process easier, less stressful, and more successful.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the SEVIS fee for U.S. student visas?

The SEVIS fee is a mandatory payment required for all international students applying for an F-1, J-1, or M-1 visa. It helps the U.S. government maintain the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. You must pay this fee before attending your visa interview.

2. Who needs to pay the SEVIS fee?

All new F-1, M-1, and most J-1 visa applicants must pay the SEVIS fee. Students transferring between U.S. schools with an active SEVIS record usually do not need to pay it again. Always check your I-20 or DS-2019 form for confirmation.

3. How much is the SEVIS fee in 2025?

The SEVIS fee for F-1 and M-1 students is typically around $350, while the fee for J-1 exchange visitors is about $220. These amounts may be updated yearly based on government regulations. It is recommended to verify current fees before making payment.

4. When should I pay the SEVIS fee?

You should pay the SEVIS fee as soon as you receive your I-20 or DS-2019 form. It must be paid at least 3 days before your visa interview for your payment to be registered. Keep your payment receipt safe for the interview.

5. Can the SEVIS fee be refunded?

The SEVIS fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is denied. However, if you reapply for the same visa type within a certain period, you may be able to reuse the payment. Refunds are allowed only if a duplicate payment was made by mistake.

6. Do I need to pay the SEVIS fee again if my visa is denied?

No, you do not usually need to pay again if you apply for the same visa category within 12 months. You must keep your original SEVIS ID number active. If your SEVIS ID changes, a new fee must be paid.

7. What documents are needed to pay the SEVIS fee?

You need your SEVIS ID, which begins with “N00…”, found on your I-20 or DS-2019. You will also need your passport details and a payment method such as a card. After payment, a digital receipt is generated for your records.

8. Is the SEVIS fee the same as the visa fee?

No, the SEVIS fee is separate from the U.S. visa application fee (MRV fee). You must pay both to complete your student visa process. The SEVIS fee supports the student tracking system, while the visa fee covers consular processing.

9. Do dependents (F-2 or J-2) need to pay the SEVIS fee?

No, dependents do not need to pay a separate SEVIS fee. Only the primary F-1, M-1, or J-1 applicant must pay. However, dependents must still complete their visa application steps.

10. What happens if I forget to bring my SEVIS fee receipt to the interview?

Your application may still proceed, but it can cause delays if the officer cannot verify your payment. It is always recommended to print and carry the receipt with your documents. Keeping a digital backup on your phone is also helpful.

11. How does the SEVIS fee impact my visa approval?

Paying the SEVIS fee ensures your student record is activated in the U.S. immigration system. It does not guarantee approval but is a mandatory requirement for processing. Failure to pay means your visa application cannot proceed.

12. Do I need to pay the SEVIS fee again if I change my university?

If your SEVIS ID stays the same, you do not need to repay the fee. If your new university issues a new SEVIS ID, a fresh SEVIS fee payment is required. Always check your updated I-20 to confirm.