Can I fill DS-160 before paying SEVIS fee?

Can You Submit a DS-160 Form Before Paying the SEVIS Fee?

When applying for a U.S. visa, students are required to complete a DS-160 form and pay a SEVIS fee. While the DS-160 form must be submitted prior to the visa interview, the SEVIS fee payment timeline is more flexible.

DS-160 Form and SEVIS Fee Payment:

The DS-160 form is an online application that collects personal and travel information from visa applicants. It is a mandatory document for all nonimmigrant visa applications, including student visas.

The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee is a mandatory payment for students studying in the United States. It is used to maintain the database of international students and exchange visitors.

Payment Timeline:

The SEVIS fee does not need to be paid before submitting the DS-160 form. Applicants can complete and submit the DS-160 form without first paying the fee. However, the fee must be paid before the visa interview.

Applicants are advised to pay the SEVIS fee as soon as possible after completing the DS-160 form. This will ensure that their SEVIS record is created before the visa interview.

Payment Options:

The SEVIS fee can be paid online using a credit card or a bank draft. Detailed payment instructions are provided after submitting the DS-160 form.

Conclusion:

Yes, you can fill out the DS-160 form before paying the SEVIS fee. The SEVIS fee payment must be completed before the visa interview, but it can be paid at any time after submitting the DS-160 form. This flexibility allows applicants to complete the visa application process in a timely manner.