Do I have to pay for the SEVIS fee again?

SEVIS Fee Payment for Visa Re-Applications

When individuals apply for certain student or exchange visitor visas, they are required to pay a fee to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). This fee is used to maintain and manage the government database that tracks international students and exchange visitors in the United States.

Re-Applying for the Same Visa Type

If you are re-applying for the same type of visa within one year, you may not need to pay the SEVIS fee again. Your previous SEVIS fee payment will remain valid and cover your new application. This is applicable only if the type of visa you are applying for remains unchanged.

Example

For instance, if you previously applied for an F-1 student visa and paid the SEVIS fee, you can re-apply for an F-1 student visa within one year without paying the fee again.

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to this rule. You may need to pay the SEVIS fee again if:

• You are changing to a different visa type.
• You are applying for a new visa after more than one year has passed since your previous visa expired.
• You are transferring to a different school.

It is always advisable to check with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the Department of State for the most up-to-date information on SEVIS fee requirements. Failure to pay the correct fee may result in delays or denial of your visa application.