SEVIS Fee Payment Information
What is SEVIS?
The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System or SEVIS is the electronic, internet-based system of record-keeping for international students. The system is part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) used by schools, embassies, and immigration services to monitor students' visits in the U.S. Regulations require that the system be self-funded and in September 2004 DHS began collecting a fee. The $200 fee is paid by new students who use an I-20 to enter the U.S. in F1 visa status.
Who has to pay the SEVIS fee?
- If you received an "initial" I-20 (see item #3).
- F1 students who leave the U.S. for five months or more and then re-enter the U.S. in F1 status.
- Individuals who are in the U.S. and wish to change to F-1 student status from another nonimmigrant status.
- F1 students who fall out-of-status for more than five months and apply for reinstatement.
- If you received a "Transfer Pending" I-20 (see item #3)and still hold a valid F1 visa, you do not need to pay a new SEVIS fee, but if you are renewing your visa you may be required to pay the fee.
When do students pay the SEVIS fee?
- The fee is paid after receiving the form I-20 from the school which the student will be attending. You will need your SEVIS ID# from your I20 to pay the fee.
- The fee should be paid at least 3 business days before going to the U.S. embassy or consulate for a visa interview. You need to bring your receipt showing proof of paying the SEVIS fee to your visa interview.
- Canadian students must pay prior to applying for F1 status at a U.S. port of entry.
- For individuals applying for a Change of Status in the U.S., the fee is paid prior to submitting their status change application.
How do students pay the fee?
- The fee may be paid electronically by completing Form I-901 through the internet and using a credit card.
- Western Union's "Quick Pay" service collects the fee in local currency.