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What is the SEVIS fee?
The SEVIS fee is required of all F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrants who come to the U.S. for the purpose of pursuing a full course of study at institutions such as colleges, universities, and language training programs, as well as, exchange programs.
SEVIS fee payments will be used by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to fund the Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), the immigration database used to process documents for international students and exchange visitors during their stay in the United States, as well as to facilitate their travel abroad and visa applications.
How much is the SEVIS Fee?
The SEVIS fee for F1 students is US $350.
The SEVIS Fee for J-1 Students $220.
Pay the SEVIS Fee Online
Where and when do I use the SEVIS fee receipt?
Present the SEVIS fee receipt at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with an F-1 or J-1 visa application form and supporting documents. Embassies and consulates will be able to verify SEVIS fee payment electronically, but it is strongly recommended to have the paper receipt when applying for a visa, as well as, when entering the U.S. Present the SEVIS fee receipt at the U.S. port of entry when entering the U.S. (if exempt from the visa requirement, i.e. Canadian citizens) or making a new entry to the U.S. to regain legal status. Include a copy of the SEVIS fee receipt with an application to DHS to change status to F-1 or J-1. Include a copy of the SEVIS fee receipt with an application to DHS for reinstatement to F-1 status (if it has been more than 5 months since the violation of status occurred). Include a copy of the SEVIS fee receipt with an application to the Department of State to change the J-1 category and with an application for reinstatement to J-1 status.
If the SEVIS fee is paid with one school's I-20, can it be transferred to another?
Yes, the SEVIS fee is transferable to another I-20 or DS-2019. The student needs to bring either I-20s or DS-2019s to the embassy or consulate when applying for the visa, as well as, the SEVIS fee receipt.
Is the SEVIS fee refundable?
The SEVIS fee cannot be refunded if the F-1 or J-1 visa is denied, but it is valid for 12 months if the student chooses to make another visa application for the same kind of program.
What Student Information will be collected in SEVIS?
Student and dependent’s full name (as they appear in passport) Student/dependent current address (may not be a post office box and any changes to your home or local address) Visa classification and date of visa issue Academic status (full-time / part-time) Country of birth and birth date Country of citizenship Port of entry and date of entry Date you begin your studies Degree program and Level Whether you enroll each semester, or fail to enroll Number of credits completed each term Change in status from FT to PT (for Canadian Commuters only) Drop below FT status with authorization Withdrawal from studies Completion date of program Any curricular / optional training Disciplinary action due to criminal convictions Termination date and reasons
What should students do to prepare for SEVIS?
Any changes in information will be posted on this website. Changes in immigration or visa procedures sometimes happen quickly. Information is posted as soon as we have reliable facts. Understand the immigration regulations and learn how to maintain lawful status in the U.S., and refer any questions or problems immediately to the experts. The four words we do not like to hear are: "But my friend said" Be proactive: Students should plan their course schedules carefully so that they maintain full-time enrollment. Make travel arrangements early, and anticipate delays at consulates and border crossings. Keep all documents up-to-date. Changes in degree level, extensions, and travel validations must be done in a timely manner and on SEVIS documents. Allow time for processing new forms. Feel free to come to us for assistance. Buffalo State is a better place because you are here, and we are committed to your success! If you do not register for classes for a fall or spring semester (summer registration is optional), you are required by INS regulations to depart the United States.
