When applying for a student visa to study in the United States, there are several fees involved in the process. One of the key fees that all international students must pay is the SEVIS fee. Understanding the SEVIS fee and its role in the student visa application process is crucial for any student planning to study in the U.S. This article provides a detailed overview of the SEVIS fee, its purpose, how much it costs, who needs to pay it, and how to make the payment.
What is the SEVIS Fee?
The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee is a mandatory fee for international students who are applying for an F, M, or J visa to study in the United States. SEVIS is a government database that tracks students and exchange visitors during their stay in the U.S. This system collects and maintains information about non-immigrant students, exchange visitors, and their dependents. The fee is used to fund the operations of SEVIS and ensure the U.S. government can effectively monitor and regulate foreign students.
Why Do You Need to Pay the SEVIS Fee?
The SEVIS fee is an essential part of the visa process because it supports the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) efforts to monitor international students while they are in the country. It also helps cover the costs associated with maintaining the SEVIS database, which stores valuable data regarding students, exchange visitors, and their academic progress. Paying the SEVIS fee is a requirement for obtaining a visa, and the fee must be paid before scheduling a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
How Much Is the SEVIS Fee?
The amount of the SEVIS fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for. The fees are different for F, M, and J visa applicants.
SEVIS Fee for F and M Visa Holders
For students applying for an F-1 or M-1 visa (for academic or vocational studies), the SEVIS fee is currently $350. This fee applies to individuals applying to study at a U.S. college, university, language program, or vocational school. The fee also applies to dependents of F and M visa holders, such as spouses and children, who will be accompanying the student to the U.S.
It is important to note that this fee is separate from other visa-related fees, such as the visa application fee. The SEVIS fee is also distinct from tuition fees and other living expenses.
SEVIS Fee for J Visa Holders
The SEVIS fee for J-1 visa holders (for exchange programs, such as research, short-term study, or work-and-study programs) is $220. This fee applies to participants in exchange visitor programs sponsored by the U.S. government or private organizations. J-1 visa applicants should check with their sponsoring organizations or programs for specific instructions on paying the fee.
SEVIS Fee for J Visa Waiver Applicants
If a J-1 visa holder is applying for a J-1 visa waiver, the SEVIS fee may be higher. In these cases, the fee may be $180, depending on the type of waiver being applied for. It is important for J-1 visa holders seeking a waiver to confirm the exact fee with the U.S. embassy or consulate handling their case.
Who Needs to Pay the SEVIS Fee?
The SEVIS fee applies to all individuals applying for an F, M, or J visa to study or participate in exchange programs in the U.S. However, there are specific exceptions and scenarios where the fee may not apply.
F and M Visa Holders
Students applying for an F-1 (academic student) or M-1 (vocational student) visa are required to pay the SEVIS fee. This includes students accepted into a U.S. college, university, or vocational school. The fee must be paid after receiving the Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) from the U.S. institution they plan to attend. The form I-20 is issued by the school once the student has been accepted, and it includes instructions on how to pay the SEVIS fee.
J Visa Holders
The SEVIS fee also applies to individuals applying for a J-1 visa (exchange visitor visa). This includes students in exchange programs, scholars, researchers, and those participating in work-study or cultural exchange programs. J-1 visa holders must pay the SEVIS fee after receiving the Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status) from their sponsoring organization.
Dependents of Visa Holders
In general, dependents (spouse and children) accompanying F, M, or J visa holders do not need to pay a separate SEVIS fee. However, their information will be included in the SEVIS database as dependents of the primary visa holder. It is essential to review the specific visa category to confirm if dependents must also pay a fee.
How to Pay the SEVIS Fee?
Paying the SEVIS fee is a straightforward process, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure your payment is processed correctly.
Online Payment Process
The SEVIS fee can be paid online through the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) website. After receiving your Form I-20 or DS-2019 from the U.S. institution or sponsoring organization, you can visit the SEVIS website to pay the fee. Follow the instructions on the website to fill out the payment form and make your payment using a credit card, debit card, or other approved payment methods.
Once you make the payment, you will receive a payment confirmation receipt. It is crucial to keep a copy of this receipt, as you will need to present it during your visa interview or application process. The SEVIS fee payment receipt is an important document that proves you have paid the fee.
Timing of Payment
It is recommended that students pay the SEVIS fee well in advance of their visa interview. You must pay the fee at least three days before your visa interview to ensure the payment is processed in time. Some visa applicants may also be required to bring a copy of their SEVIS fee payment confirmation to their visa interview, so it’s important to be prepared.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay the SEVIS Fee?
Failure to pay the SEVIS fee will result in a delay or even denial of your visa application. U.S. consulates and embassies require proof of SEVIS fee payment before scheduling a visa interview. If the fee is not paid, your visa application will not be processed, and you will not be allowed to attend your visa interview. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that you pay the fee and keep a copy of the payment receipt.
Conclusion
The SEVIS fee is an essential part of the U.S. student visa application process, and all applicants for F, M, or J visas must pay this fee. The amount of the fee varies depending on the type of visa, with F and M visa holders paying $350 and J visa holders paying $220. The payment process is straightforward and can be completed online, but it is important to pay the fee well in advance of your visa interview. Be sure to keep a copy of the SEVIS payment receipt, as it will be required during the visa application process. By understanding the SEVIS fee and its role in the application process, students can avoid delays and ensure a smooth visa application experience.
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