Should I pay the SEVIS fee again?

SEVIS Fee Payment for Returning International Students

International students returning to the United States after an absence of five months or more must pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) I-901 fee again. This requirement applies even if the student had previously paid the fee before departing the U.S. or authorized overseas study during their absence.

Reason for Fee Reactivation

The SEVIS fee is a mandatory payment that helps maintain the integrity of the immigration system. It provides funding for the management and monitoring of foreign students and exchange visitors in the U.S. By requiring returning students to pay the fee again, the government ensures that the system is adequately funded and that all students have their status updated and maintained.

Who Must Pay the Fee

Returning international students who fall into any of the following categories must pay the SEVIS fee again upon re-entering the U.S.:

• Students who have been absent from the U.S. for five months or more
• Students who need to reinstate their F-1 or M-1 student status
• Students who need to re-enter the U.S. after dropping out of their program or withdrawing their application

Amount of the Fee

The current SEVIS fee is $350. Students must pay the full amount before they can re-enter the U.S. or have their student status reinstated.

How to Pay the Fee

The SEVIS fee can be paid online through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s website. Students will need to create an account and follow the instructions provided.

Conclusion

Returning international students must be aware of the requirement to pay the SEVIS fee again if they have been absent from the U.S. for five months or more. This fee is essential for maintaining the integrity of the immigration system and ensuring that foreign students have their status updated and maintained. By paying the fee, students can re-enter the U.S. or reinstate their student status without any complications.