Can we pay the SEVIS fee before submitting DS-160?

Navigating the SEVIS Fee: Timing and Payment Process

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee is an essential expense for international students seeking to study in the United States. This fee helps to cover the costs of maintaining the SEVIS database, which tracks the status of foreign students and exchange visitors within the country. While completing the visa application process, its crucial to understand the specific sequence of events regarding the SEVIS fee payment. This article delves into the question of whether applicants can pay the SEVIS fee before submitting their DS-160 application.

Can I Pay the SEVIS Fee Before Submitting DS-160?

The answer is no. It is not possible to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee before completing and submitting your DS-160 application. The DS-160 confirmation number serves as a unique identifier that links your application to the corresponding SEVIS fee payment. Therefore, the DS-160 confirmation number is mandatory to initiate the SEVIS fee payment process.

Step-by-Step Payment Process

To pay the SEVIS fee, applicants must follow these sequential steps:

1. Complete and Submit DS-160 Application: Begin by carefully filling out and submitting the DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application form online. Once completed, you will receive a DS-160 confirmation number.

2. Access SEVIS Fee Website: Visit the official SEVIS fee payment website at www.fmjfee.com.

3. Enter DS-160 Confirmation Number: On the SEVIS fee payment website, enter your DS-160 confirmation number to retrieve your application information.

4. Make Payment: Using a valid credit card or debit card, proceed to make the SEVIS fee payment as per the instructions provided on the website.

5. Print SEVIS Fee Receipt: After successful payment, you will be able to print a SEVIS fee receipt for your records. This receipt serves as proof of payment and should be retained for future reference.

Consequences of Incorrect Sequence

Attempting to pay the SEVIS fee before submitting the DS-160 application will result in an error message on the SEVIS fee payment website. The system will not allow you to proceed without a valid DS-160 confirmation number. Additionally, if you fail to pay the SEVIS fee within the specified time frame, your visa application may be delayed or even denied.

Conclusion

Paying the SEVIS fee is an integral part of the visa application process for international students. It is essential to follow the correct sequence of events, which involves completing and submitting the DS-160 application first and then using the DS-160 confirmation number to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. By understanding these steps and adhering to the proper timeline, applicants can navigate the payment process smoothly and avoid potential delays or complications in their visa applications.