SEVIS Fee for Faculty and Staff

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), is a central computerized system that maintains and manages data about foreign students (F-1), exchange visitors (J-1), and their dependents (F-2 and J-2) during their stay in the United States. The SEVIS program was implemented in 2003 for all international students and scholars.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a new fee of $100 that began fall 2004 for all new F-1 and J-1 applicants. The fee is required under SEVIS and is to be used to cover the costs of the operation of the program. The rule that implements this fee went into effect September 1, 2004.

Who Must Pay the Fee?

F-1 Students and J-1 Exchange Visitors beginning new programs with documents (I-20 forms for F-1s, DS-2019 forms for J-1s) issued on or after September 1, 2004, are required to pay the $100 fee before applying for a visa. Those non-immigrants already in the United States in another immigration status, who want to change to F-1 or J-1 status, will have to pay the fee before applying for a change of status to F-1 or J-1. Canadians are required to pay before going to any U.S. port of entry. The fee can not be paid at the port of entry. The $100 SEVIS fee is in addition to any other application fees.

Who is Exempt from the Fee

Incoming F-1 and J-1 students for the fall 2004 semester and current continuing F and J students and scholars will not pay the fee. F-2 and J-2 dependents are exempt from the fee. J-1 visitors whose DS-2019s are issued by the U.S. government are also exempt.

Can a Department Pay on Behalf of a Student or Scholar?

Hiring departments, or another third-party, may pay the fee on behalf of a student or scholar if they wish. Instructions on accessing and completing the form for payment are available through the Office of International Services (OIS).

What is the Impact?

Students and scholars applying to enter the United States or to change status with I-20 or DS-2019 forms issued prior to September 1, 2004 remain unaffected. The additional cost, time and effort needed to meet the new fee requirements may adversely affect international enrollment and staff changes for subsequent terms, however. Campus departments may want to review the potential effects of the SEVIS fee on in-house procedures and projections and discuss how to increase support to international students and scholars. Communication with the International Student and Scholar Office will be vital to facilitate adjustments made through this transition period.