What is the SEVIS Fee and How to Pay for an F1 Visa?

For a student applying to study abroad, documentation and application forms can be the most daunting experience. In this process, applying for a visa is one of the most important tasks. Before we explain the process for payment for F1 Visa, let’s understand what these words mean.

For a student applying to study abroad, documentation and application forms can be the most daunting experience. In this process, applying for a visa is one of the most important tasks. Before we explain the process for payment for F1 Visa, let’s understand what these words mean.

What is SEVIS?

SEVIS stands for Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. It is a web application maintained by the US Department of Homeland Security. It is used to monitor as well as manage information about international students and their dependents who are in the USA.

What is an F1 Visa?

An F1 Visa is required for students to enter the USA for full-time study. It is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States to students who are to enroll at a university, college, or high school in the US. Before applying for the F1 Visa, the student must already have an acceptance letter from the institution he/she is applying to for a full-time academic program.

What is the SEVIS Fee?

The SEVIS Fee is a compulsory fee paid by aspiring International Students, to cover the costs of the SEVIS. The SEVIS Fee amount varies as per visa type. For an F1 Visa, the fee is $350 for international students irrespective of the country they are from.

How to Pay for an F1 Visa?

The complete process for the payment for an F1 Visa has been discussed below:

1. Obtain Your SEVIS ID: Before paying the fee, you need to have your SEVIS ID number, which is located on your Form I-20, a document issued by the U.S. school where you plan to study.
2. Visit the SEVIS Fee Payment Website: Go to the FMJFEE.com website. This is the official portal where you can pay the SEVIS fee.
3. Complete Form I-901: On the SEVIS fee payment website, you’ll need to complete Form I-901. This form requires you to enter your SEVIS ID, personal information, and details about the U.S. school you’ll be attending.
4. Make the Payment: You can pay the SEVIS fee using a credit or debit card, or through other accepted payment methods like Western Union. After completing the payment, you will receive a confirmation receipt. It is crucial to print this receipt and keep it safe, as you will need to present it during your visa interview and possibly at the U.S. port of entry.

Keep Proof of Payment: After payment, you will receive a confirmation email. Print this confirmation as proof of payment, which you’ll need for your visa interview.