Is there a deadline to pay SEVIS fee?

SEVIS Fee Payment Deadline and Validity Period

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee is a mandatory payment for international students and exchange visitors studying or training in the United States. It is essential to understand the payment deadline and validity period of this fee to ensure timely processing of visa applications.

Payment Deadline

The SEVIS fee must be paid before your visa interview. It is recommended to allow at least three days between the date of payment and your scheduled interview. This buffer time ensures that the payment is processed and reflected in the SEVIS system before your visa interview.

Validity Period

Once the SEVIS fee is paid, it remains valid in the system for a maximum of 12 months. This means that if your visa application is not approved within 12 months of the fee payment, you will need to pay the fee again. It is important to note that the validity period begins from the date of payment, not the date of your visa interview.

Consequences of Late Payment

If you fail to pay the SEVIS fee before your visa interview, your application may be delayed or denied. Additionally, if your fee payment expires before your visa is issued, you will need to pay the fee again.

Payment Process

The SEVIS fee can be paid online through the official U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) website. You will need the following information to complete the payment:

• Your SEVIS ID (provided on your Form I-20 or DS-2019)
• Bank account information or a credit card
• A valid email address

Conclusion

Paying the SEVIS fee on time is crucial for international students and exchange visitors who wish to study or train in the United States. By understanding the payment deadline and validity period, you can ensure that your fee is processed promptly and avoid any potential delays or complications with your visa application.