Once you receive your LSU I-20 or DS-2019 from International Student Services (ISS), you must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee before your visa interview. All F-1 and J-1 students must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee. Please note that F-2 and J-2 dependents are not required to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should pay the I-901 SEVIS fee?
All new F-1 students, J-1 students, and J-1 scholars who are entering the United States for the first time are required to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee. This fee is separate from the visa application fee, which you will pay before your visa interview. For more information on who must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee, refer to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website.
Note: Continuing students do not have to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee when they apply for a visa to return to the United States on the same SEVIS ID number.
When should I pay the I-901 SEVIS fee?
ISS recommends that you pay the I-901 SEVIS fee immediately upon receipt of your I-20 or DS-2019. You do not need to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee to schedule your visa appointment; however, you must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee before your visa interview.
How can I pay the I-901 SEVIS fee?
You can pay the I-901 SEVIS fee online via credit card payment at fmjfee.com. Make sure to enter your information exactly as it appears on your I-20 or DS-2019. Study in the States has created a video tutorial on how to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee.
Proof of Your I-901 SEVIS Fee Payment
After you pay your I-901 SEVIS fee, be sure to print a receipt as proof of your payment. This receipt is one of the important documents you will need when you go to your visa interview.