Do you need to pay SEVIS fee for F1 visa renewal?

Renewing Your F-1 Visa: Do You Need to Pay the SEVIS Fee Again?

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee is a crucial part of the F-1 visa process for international students coming to study in the United States. However, when it comes to renewing your F-1 visa, the rules around the SEVIS fee can be a source of confusion. The good news is that in most cases, you do not need to pay the SEVIS fee again when simply renewing your visa.

This means if your F-1 visa is expiring but you are continuing your studies at the same institution, you’re generally exempt from paying the SEVIS fee upon renewal. Think of it this way: you’ve already paid for your record to be maintained in the SEVIS system, and that record remains active as long as you’re maintaining your student status. Therefore, simply getting a new sticker in your passport (the visa renewal) doesn’t require another payment.

There are a few important exceptions and clarifications to keep in mind:

• Extended Absence from the U.S.: If you have been outside the United States for five months or more and your SEVIS record has been terminated, you will likely need to pay the SEVIS fee again when applying for a new visa. This is because a new SEVIS record will need to be created to reflect your re-entry into the student program.

• School Transfers, Program Changes, and Extensions: Even if you’re changing schools, switching degree programs within the same institution, or extending your program, you typically do not need to pay the SEVIS fee again. These actions update your existing SEVIS record rather than requiring a new one.

• Optional Practical Training (OPT) and other benefits: Applying for benefits like OPT, Curricular Practical Training (CPT), or Academic Training does not trigger a new SEVIS fee payment. These are considered extensions of your current student status and are linked to your existing SEVIS record.

Key Takeaway: Renewing your F-1 visa is primarily about updating the travel document that allows you to enter the U.S. It’s not about restarting your student status. As long as you are maintaining your student status and haven’t had a prolonged absence that resulted in the termination of your SEVIS record, you should not need to pay the SEVIS fee again.

Important Note: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult with your Designated School Official (DSO) for specific advice related to your individual situation and the latest regulations. They are the best resource for navigating the complexities of F-1 visa requirements.