SEVIS I-901 Fee Receipt

Official Definition

Proof that the SEVIS I-901 fee ($350 for F-1 students) has been paid before the visa interview, printed from fmjfee.com with the I-20's SEVIS ID. Without it the visa is refused.

What Consular Officers Look For

F-1 students pay the SEVIS I-901 fee of $350 before the visa is issued, using the SEVIS ID and school code from the I-20, at fmjfee.com by card or by check, money order or Western Union. Allow at least three business days for the payment to be verified. An interview can be booked before paying, but a visa is refused without proof of payment. The receipt is printed from fmjfee.com and should be kept.

There are no waivers, though a third party such as the school may pay. A student refused a visa who reapplies within 12 months of paying does not pay again, and F-2 dependants do not pay the fee.

Evidence Strength

Strong Evidence

I-901 receipt printed from fmjfee.com showing SEVIS ID, name, date of birth and amount paid
SEVIS ID that matches the Form I-20
Payment made at least three business days before the interview
A copy kept with the I-20 and DS-160 for the interview

Weak Evidence

No proof of payment at the interview
A SEVIS ID that differs from the I-20's
A receipt for the wrong person or the wrong school
Paying on the day of the interview without allowing time for verification

Common Refusal / Processing Triggers

Common Problems

No proof of payment at the interview, which means the visa is refused.
A SEVIS ID on the receipt that differs from the I-20.
Paying too late for the payment to be verified before the interview.
Paying again when a refused student who reapplies within 12 months does not need to.

Tips for Strengthening Your Evidence

Pro Tips

Use the SEVIS ID and school code printed on your I-20.
Pay as soon as you have the I-20, and allow at least three business days for verification.
Print the receipt from fmjfee.com and keep it with the I-20 and the DS-160 confirmation.
Check the name, date of birth and SEVIS ID on the receipt against the I-20.

Relevant Document Types

Typical uploads: the I-901 fee payment receipt from fmjfee.com showing the SEVIS ID, name, date of birth and amount paid.