The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a U.S. government system that manages data and application processes for J-1 non-immigrants in the United States. SEVIS enables schools and exchange program sponsors to transmit information for the creation of Certificates of Eligibility (DS-2019 for J exchange visitors), maintenance of J-1 records, and the reporting of “events” (changes in program information). This information is used by U.S. government agencies to track visitor status, issue visas, and to determine eligibility for immigration benefits.
If you are beginning a new J-1 program in the U.S., you are required to pay a one-time fee before you may obtain an J-1 visa and enter the United States. The SEVIS fee is in addition to any visa fees you may be required to pay at a U.S. consulate. J-2 dependent family members are not required to pay the fee. This fee is not a University fee and provides no funds or services to the University.
Fee Payment
- SEVIS fee information and instructions can be found at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (USICE) web page (https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.html).
- Payment and receipt must be made before a visa can be issued by a U.S. consulate and entry to the U.S.
- Payment of the fee must be made at least 3 business days prior to making an application for an J-1 visa at a U.S. consulate.
- The fee cannot be paid at a U.S. consulate or at a U.S. port of entry.
- Citizens of Canada and certain islands exempt from visa requirements must pay the fee at least 3 business days prior to entering the U.S. at a U.S. port of entry.
Methods of Payment
Online/Credit Card
- Payment can be made at the USICE web site https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/. Payment can be made by Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.
- Complete the online form (I-901) as instructed.
- You must enter your name exactly as it appears on your DS-2019.
- Enter the SEVIS ID number on your DS-2019 (found in the upper right corner starting with the letter "N").
- Print the online receipt after completing the payment form.
Check or Money Order By Mail
- Read the instructions on the USICE web site carefully, then download and print the I-901 form.
- Warning! It can take several weeks to process the payment by mail, and checks must be in U.S. dollars and drawn on a U.S. bank.
Western Union Quick Pay
Read the payment instructions for Western Union payment at the USICE web page. Select the instructions according to whether you are making payment inside or outside the U.S. and whether you are an F or J student at the bottom of the page.
SEVIS Fee Receipt
- After paying the fee, you will receive a payment receipt (form I-797). If paying on-line, be sure to print the receipt at the end of your transaction.
- Make and keep extra copies of your SEVIS fee payment receipt. You should keep your receipt for your entire stay in the U.S.
- Present a copy of the receipt with your visa application at the U.S. consulate and at the U.S. port of entry. Carry the receipt with you during any future travel into the U.S.
- J-2 dependent family members should present a copy of the receipt when applying for J-2 visas and when traveling into the U.S.