International Students

Future Students: SEVIS I-901 Fee

What is SEVIS I-901 fee?

On September 1, 2004, the new United States Department of Homeland Security rule was first implemented.  This rule requires that individuals who want to obtain an F-1 or J-1 visa must first pay a one-time fee of $100 USD.  This fee helps to pay for the SEVIS system (Student and Exchange Information System) that is used by all U.S. schools to construct I-20 forms.  If you are applying for a new visa, you have to pay for any applicable visa application fees.

Please read the following information carefully:

Who pays the SEVIS fee?

• New students with I-20s marked for “initial attendance” and issued on or after September 1, 2004 who are applying for an new F-1 visa from outside the U.S.
• New students with I-20s marked for “initial attendance” and issued on or after September 1, 2004 who are now applying for a change to F-1 status from another status (example: B-2)
• Current F-1 students in the U.S. filing for reinstatement after being out-of-status for more than 5 months and were issued an I-20 for reinstatement that was dated on or after September 1, 2004.

• Canadians (who do not need an F-1 visa to enter the U.S.) should present a copy of the SEVIS fee receipt at the port of entry with the appropriate I-20. It will not be possible to pay the fee at the port of entry.

Can someone else (friend or family member) pay the fee for me?

Yes, but you should have a copy of the fee payment receipt that proves they have paid the fee for you. 

Will continuing F-1 students in the U.S. have to pay?

No, unless the student falls out-of-status for more than 5 months and applies for reinstatement after or is outside the U.S. for more than 5 months.

What about my F-2 dependents?

F-2 dependents do not have to pay the fee.

When do I pay the SEVIS fee?

The fee should be paid at least 3 business days before you apply for your visa, change of status, or reinstatement application.

Will the DHS keep a record of my payment on file?

Fee payments should be entered into your permanent immigration (SEVIS) record but it is strongly recommended that you keep a copy of your fee receipt (form I-797) for future use.

What if my F-1 visa application is denied?

The SEVIS fee will not be refunded, but if you apply again for an F-1/J-1 visa within 12 months of a visa denial, you will not have to pay the fee again.

How do I pay for the SEVIS-I-901 fee?

After receiving your I-20, you need to: 

• Pay your SEVIS I-901 Fee ($100 USD) by internet (www.FMJfee.com).
• Fill out the I-901 form
• Pay the fee by credit card
• Print a copy for your receipt OR

You can also pay the SEVIS fee locally using the Wester Union QuickPay™ service. You can pay using the local currency along with the needed form Z-901. The payment will be electronically transmitted to SEVP. The Western Union receipt serves as immediate proof-of-payment for a visa interview at a U.S. Consulate and for admission to the U.S. Port of Entry.

You must pay this fee at least 3 business days before applying for a visa.

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