SEVIS Fee

J-1 scholars must pay a $220 SEVIS fee once per J-1 program.

The fee funds operation of the U.S. government’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program, which oversees SEVIS.

Pay the Fee

  • You should pay the SEVIS fee online.

  • You must pay with a credit card: Visa, MasterCard, or American Express.

  • Remember to print your receipt—you will need it for your visa interview and visa application.

  • J-2 dependents do not have to pay an additional SEVIS fee.

  • Your host department, a family member, or a friend may also pay the SEVIS fee on your behalf.

Pay the SEVIS fee »

Who Must Pay the J-1 SEVIS Fee, and When?

  1. You must pay the fee if you are pursuing a new J-1 program.

    You will pay your SEVIS fee after you receive your SEVIS ID number and Exchange Visitor Program Number from your school or program sponsor. Pay the $220 fee at least three business days before your visa interview.

  2. SEVIS fees are transferable. If you paid the fee for a previously issued DS-2019, you do not need to pay the fee when you apply for a new J-1 visa, provided it is for the same J-1 program.

Learn more about the SEVIS fee »