1. What is the SEVIS Fee for U.S. student visas?
The SEVIS fee for U.S. student visas is $350.
2. How do I pay the SEVIS Fee?
The SEVIS Fee must be paid online with a credit or debit card. The SEVIS Fee website is http://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/.
3. Is the SEVIS fee refundable?
No, the SEVIS fee is not refundable.
4. How long does it take to process my student visa application after I pay the SEVIS fee?
It typically takes 4-6 weeks to process a student visa application after the SEVIS fee has been paid. However, processing times can vary depending on the location of the embassy or consulate that will process your application.
5. Do I need to update my SEVIS record with a change of address?
Yes, it is important to update your SEVIS record with a change of address. The US Department of Homeland Security requires that all international students maintain an up-to-date address in their SEVIS record, and any changes must be reported within 10 days of the change. Failure to do so could result in your status being terminated or other serious consequences.
6. How do I change my address on my SEVIS record?
You will need to contact the Designated School Official (DSO) at your school. They will be able to help you update your SEVIS record with your new address.
7. What documents do I need to provide when changing my address on my SEVIS record?
You will need to provide proof of your new address, such as a lease agreement, utility bill, or an official government document that verifies your address. You may also have to provide a letter from your Designated School Official (DSO) explaining why you need to change your address.
8. Can I change my address online?
Yes, you can change your address online in many cases. It depends on the organization. For example, many banks allow you to change your address online via their website or mobile app. The U.S. Postal Service also provides an online tool to update your address.
9. How long does it take for a change of address to be processed?
The processing time for a change of address depends on the method used to submit the request. If you submit a change of address request online or in person at a post office, the request will usually be processed within seven business days. If you mail your request, it can take up to two weeks for it to be processed.
10. Will I be notified once my address change has been accepted by SEVIS?
Yes, after you update your address in SEVIS, you will be sent a confirmation email.
11. What happens if I don’t report a change of address within 10 days?
If you fail to report a change of address within 10 days, you may be subject to a fine or penalty from your local Department of Motor Vehicles. Additionally, you may not receive important mail or documents from the DMV and other government agencies because they will still be sent to your old address.
12. Can I update my mailing address separately from my physical address in SEVIS?
Yes, it is possible to update your mailing address separately from your physical address in SEVIS. Your mailing address should correspond to the address listed on your form I-20 or form DS-2019 and can be updated through the address update form.
13. Do I need to report a change of name or other personal information in SEVIS?
Yes, you need to report a change of name or other personal information in Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Depending on the type of change, you may need to update your information in SEVIS and/or submit additional documents or forms to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
14. If I move to a different city, will I need to apply for a new student visa?
Yes, you will need to apply for a new student visa if you move to a different city. Depending on the city you move to, you may need to apply for a student visa from that country or from the United States.
15. Do I need to update my passport information in SEVIS if it has changed?
Yes, you need to update your passport information in SEVIS if it has changed. It is important to keep your visa and immigration documents current and up-to-date. You can update your passport information in SEVIS via your school’s designated school official (DSO).
16. Can I transfer my student visa from one school to another?
Yes, you can transfer your student visa from one school to another if you meet certain criteria. You must first obtain approval from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to transfer your visa. Additionally, the school you are transferring to must issue you a new Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20).
17. What happens if I fail to maintain valid status as a student in the U.S.?
If you fail to maintain valid status as a student in the U.S., you may be subject to removal from the United States. Additionally, depending on the circumstances, you may be barred from returning to the United States for a period of time. Therefore, it is important to make sure you maintain valid status as a student in order to remain lawfully present in the United States.
18. If I leave the U.S., do I need to pay the SEVIS fee again when returning?
No, the SEVIS fee does not need to be paid again when returning to the U.S.
19. Is the SEVIS fee tax-deductible?
No, the SEVIS fee is not tax-deductible.
20. Does paying the SEVIS fee guarantee that my student visa application will be approved?
No, paying the SEVIS fee does not guarantee that a student visa application will be approved. The fee only covers the cost of maintaining the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). The visa application process is a separate process and involves an interview with a consular officer at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The student must demonstrate eligibility for the visa and convince the consular officer that they intend to return to their country of residence after their studies are complete.