What happens if I forgot to pay my SEVIS fee?

Consequences of Overdue SEVIS Fee Payment

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee is a mandatory payment required for all international students and exchange visitors entering or maintaining status in the United States. Overlooking the deadline for SEVIS fee payment has severe implications that can impact a student’s academic journey.

SEVIS Record Termination

Failure to pay the SEVIS fee by the established deadline results in the immediate termination of the student’s SEVIS record. This action effectively invalidates their legal status as a student in the United States. The termination of the SEVIS record means that the student is no longer authorized to attend school or remain in the country.

Entry Restriction

With a terminated SEVIS record, international students will be barred from entering the United States. They will be unable to obtain a visa or any other type of entry authorization. This restriction applies even if the overdue fee is later paid.

Loss of Student Status

Overdue SEVIS fee payment is a serious violation of federal regulations governing student visas. As a consequence, the student’s F-1 or J-1 student status will be revoked. This loss of status may have additional ramifications, such as:

• Inability to continue studies at the current institution
• Denial of future visa applications
• Deportation from the United States

Importance of Prompt Payment

It is crucial for international students to prioritize timely payment of their SEVIS fee to avoid potential complications. The fee can be paid online through the SEVIS website, and payment receipts should be retained for future reference. Students should also monitor their SEVIS accounts to ensure that payments have been recorded and their records remain active.

In summary, overlooking SEVIS fee payment is a significant breach of immigration regulations that can result in SEVIS record termination, entry restriction, and loss of student status. International students should be diligent about meeting payment deadlines to maintain their legal standing and pursue their studies unhindered.