J-1 scholars must pay a SEVIS fee once per J-1 program. SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. The fee funds operation of the U.S. government’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program, which oversees SEVIS.

Who must pay the J-1 SEVIS fee, and when?

You must pay the fee if you are pursuing a new J-1 program.

• You will pay your SEVIS fee after you receive your SEVIS ID number and Exchange Visitor Program Number from your school or program sponsor. Pay the fee at least three business days before your visa interview. 

• You must also pay the fee if you are a J-1 exchange visitor and are applying for reinstatement of status. If you need to apply for reinstatement, please contact us.

SEVIS fees are transferable. If you paid the fee for a previously issued DS-2019, you do not need to pay the fee when you apply for a new J-1 visa, provided it is for the same J-1 program.

Pay the fee

You should pay the SEVIS fee online. You must pay with a credit card: Visa, MasterCard, or American Express. Remember to print your receipt—you will need it for your visa interview and visa application. J-2 dependents do not have to pay an additional SEVIS fee. Your host department, a family member, or a friend may also pay the SEVIS fee on your behalf.