SEVIS Fee Requirement: F-1 Students
IMPORTANT UPDATE: On October 24, 2008 the Department of Homeland Security plans to increase the SEVIS fee from $100 to $200. If possible, it is recommended that you pay your SEVIS fee online before this increase.
Who pays the SEVIS fee?
- Prospective students with "initial attendance" I-20s who are applying for an "initial" F-1 visa from outside the US
- Prospective students with "initial attendance" I-20s who are applying for a change to F-1 status from another visa category
- Current F-1 students in the US filing for reinstatement after being out of status more than 5 months
The fee must be paid at least 3 business days prior to applying for your visa, or applying for admission at a US port-of-entry for those exempt from the visa requirement (Canadian citizens). The fee must be paid prior to submission of a change of status petition or reinstatement application. Pay before October 24, 2008 to avoid the fee increase from $100 to $200.
What about my F-2 dependents?
F-2 dependents do not have to pay the fee.
How do I pay the fee?
The fee can be paid online at www.fmjfee.com or by mail. It can be paid by you or by a third party, inside or outside the US.
To Pay Online (Recommended)
- Find the Form I-901 at www.fmjfee.com.
- Complete the form online and give the necessary credit or debit card information.
*Be sure to type your name exactly as it appears on your I-20 form. - Print a copy of the online receipt.
- Make copies of your receipt, and keep it with your other important immigration documents.
- For instructions to pay by mail, see: www.ice.gov/sevis/i901/faq4.htm
No. The SEVIS fee can only be processed by the Department of Homeland online at www.fjmfee.com web site or by mail.
For more information regarding the SEVIS fee requirement visit the SEVP SEVIS fee web site or contact the address below:
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