Introduction to the SEVIS I-901 Fee
The SEVIS I-901 fee is a mandatory fee for international students and exchange visitors who come to the United States on F-1 or J-1 visas. The fee is used to fund the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), which is a database that tracks international students and exchange visitors in the US.
The SEVIS I-901 fee is typically paid by the student or exchange visitor before entering the US, and it is a one-time payment. The fee is currently $350 for F-1 students and $220 for J-1 exchange visitors.
Who Must Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee
The SEVIS I-901 fee is required for all international students and exchange visitors who come to the US on F-1 or J-1 visas. This includes students who are pursuing a degree at a US university, as well as exchange visitors who are participating in a cultural exchange program.
There are some exceptions to the SEVIS I-901 fee requirement, such as students who are sponsored by the US government or students who are pursuing a degree at a US university through a distance learning program.
Costs and Payment Options for the SEVIS I-901 Fee
The SEVIS I-901 fee can be paid online or by mail. The fee is currently $350 for F-1 students and $220 for J-1 exchange visitors. Payment can be made using a credit or debit card, or by check or money order.
It is recommended that students and exchange visitors pay the SEVIS I-901 fee as soon as possible after receiving their I-20 or DS-2019 form, as the fee must be paid before entering the US.
Refund Options for the SEVIS I-901 Fee
In some cases, students and exchange visitors may be eligible for a refund of the SEVIS I-901 fee. This can occur if the student or exchange visitor's visa is denied, or if the student or exchange visitor withdraws from their program before entering the US.
To request a refund of the SEVIS I-901 fee, students and exchange visitors must submit a request in writing to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, along with supporting documentation.
Consequences of Not Paying the SEVIS I-901 Fee
Failure to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee can result in serious consequences, including denial of entry into the US. Students and exchange visitors who do not pay the fee may also be subject to delays or denials of their visa applications.
It is therefore essential that students and exchange visitors pay the SEVIS I-901 fee as soon as possible after receiving their I-20 or DS-2019 form, to avoid any potential issues or delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SEVIS I-901 fee used for?
The SEVIS I-901 fee is used to fund the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), which tracks international students and exchange visitors in the US.
Who is required to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee?
All international students and exchange visitors who come to the US on F-1 or J-1 visas are required to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
How much is the SEVIS I-901 fee?
The SEVIS I-901 fee is currently $350 for F-1 students and $220 for J-1 exchange visitors.
Can I get a refund of the SEVIS I-901 fee?
Yes, in some cases students and exchange visitors may be eligible for a refund of the SEVIS I-901 fee, such as if their visa is denied or if they withdraw from their program.
What happens if I don't pay the SEVIS I-901 fee?
Failure to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee can result in denial of entry into the US, delays or denials of visa applications, and other serious consequences.
How do I pay the SEVIS I-901 fee?
The SEVIS I-901 fee can be paid online or by mail, using a credit or debit card, or by check or money order.