What happens if I don't pay the SEVIS fee?

The Consequences of Not Paying the SEVIS Fee: Your Exchange Visitor Program at Risk

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee is a non-negotiable requirement for all individuals participating in exchange visitor programs in the United States. Failure to pay this fee can have serious repercussions, potentially jeopardizing your entire experience. Let’s clarify exactly what happens if you don’t pay.

Simply put, without a paid SEVIS fee, your participation in the exchange visitor program is invalid. This means your visa application will be incomplete, preventing you from entering the US or continuing your program if you’re already here. The consequences are far-reaching and can include:

• Visa Denial: If you haven’t paid the SEVIS fee before applying for your visa, your application will be rejected. You’ll need to pay the fee, rectify the situation, and re-apply, which can cause significant delays.
• Program Ineligibility: Even if you manage to enter the US without a paid SEVIS fee, your program sponsor will be unable to officially enroll you. This means you’ll be unable to access necessary resources, participate in program activities, and potentially face deportation.
• Immigration Complications: Your failure to pay the SEVIS fee will create a significant problem with US immigration authorities. It will cast doubt on your intentions and could lead to further scrutiny and potentially legal repercussions.
• Financial Loss: Beyond the cost of the SEVIS fee itself, you risk losing the significant investment you’ve already made in your program, including travel expenses, tuition, and living costs. The time lost during the rectification process is also a considerable cost.

The Myth of Exemption: A common misconception is that paying the SEVIS fee once exempts you from future payments. This is absolutely false. The SEVIS fee is tied specifically to each individual program. Even if you’re switching to a new program with the same sponsor, a fresh I-901 SEVIS fee is required. Completing one program doesn’t automatically transfer the payment to the next. Think of it as purchasing a separate ticket for each program you participate in.

In short: The SEVIS fee is not an optional expense; it’s a mandatory step in the process. Failing to pay it will create significant problems, jeopardizing your ability to participate in your exchange visitor program and potentially causing long-term immigration difficulties. Ensure you pay this fee promptly and correctly to avoid these detrimental consequences. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your program sponsor or consult an immigration lawyer for clarification. Proactive action is crucial to prevent costly and time-consuming setbacks.