Understanding the SEVIS I-901 Fee Receipt: Why It Matters and How to Get It

So, you’re getting ready to intern, train, or teach in the U.S. with a J‑1 visa—pretty exciting! But before you start dreaming about your American adventure, there are some key steps to tackle. One of them is to pay the SEVIS I‑901 fee and grab that all-important receipt.

If you’re wondering what this fee is or how to handle it without a hitch, don’t worry. This guide has you covered with everything you need to know about the SEVIS I‑901 fee, from what it’s for to how to pay it and why that receipt is so crucial. Let’s break it down and make this as easy as possible.

What’s the SEVIS I‑901 Fee All About?

SEVIS stands for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, a tool used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to monitor J‑1 visa holders while in the U.S. 

The SEVIS I‑901 fee is a one-time payment required to maintain your SEVIS record—it’s separate from your visa application fee or any fees your sponsor might charge. Without paying it, you can’t proceed with your visa or enter the U.S. You’ll need the receipt for both your visa interview and port-of-entry. 

Why Does SEVIS Matter?

SEVIS lets the government track who’s in the U.S. under J‑1 status, ensures schools and sponsors report changes like address updates or program adjustments, and supports program maintenance, extensions, and compliance.

Who Has to Pay This Fee?

You must pay the SEVIS I‑901 fee if you’re applying for a J‑1 visa for the first time with a new DS‑2019, or if you’re seeking reinstatement after a substantive violation or being out of status for 121 to 269 days, or if you’re transferring from a government-sponsored (G-code) exempt program to a non-exempt one or changing J‑1 categories not under a G-code. 

You do not need to pay the fee if you are a J‑2 dependent, you’re extending or transferring within the same J‑1 category and same SEVIS ID, or you’re participating in a fully federally sponsored (G‑1/G‑2/G‑3/G‑7) J‑1 program.

How Much Is the Fee?

The standard full SEVIS I‑901 fee for most J‑1 applicants is $220, with a subsidized $35 rate for certain program types like au pair, summer work travel, or camp counselor. Federally sponsored J‑1 programs have no fee.

Related: J-1 Visa Program Costs: A Comprehensive Overview 

When Should You Pay?

You need to pay after receiving your DS‑2019 and before your visa interview or entering the U.S. For credit card payments, allow at least three business days before these events. Mail-in methods such as check, money order, or Western Union can take four to six weeks, so pay early. Canadians and Bermudians who don’t need a visa must still pay at least three days before U.S. entry. 

How Do You Pay the Fee?

Payment is made online at fmjfee.com via credit or debit card, or by mail with Form I‑901 and a check or money order payable to the Department of Homeland Security, or via Western Union Quick Pay. Applicants from Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, or Gambia must use mail or Western Union. 

Quick note: Stay safe from scams. Only use the official FMJFee website to avoid fraud.

What’s the Receipt?

After payment, you’ll receive a PDF or mailed confirmation showing your name, SEVIS ID, receipt number, and payment details. This receipt acts as proof at your visa interview and port of entry; ensure the SEVIS ID matches your DS‑2019.

How Do You Use the Receipt?

Present it at your visa interview and again upon U.S. entry. It’s wise to keep multiple copies for extensions, reinstatements, or other purposes.

Tips to Keep Things Smooth

Double‑check that the SEVIS ID on the receipt matches your DS‑2019. Pay early, especially if using mail. Keep extra copies of the receipt. Use only fmjfee.com, and follow country‑specific rules for applicants from restricted payment countries.

What If Something Goes Wrong?

If you misplace your receipt, log in to fmjfee.com to reprint it. If payment fails, verify your bank statement and retry. Contact your sponsor or SEVP immediately if the information on the receipt is incorrect. If your visa is denied but you reapply within 12 months for the same J‑1 category, you generally do not need to pay again. 

Someone else can pay for you, but they must use your exact name, passport number, and SEVIS ID. If you lose your receipt, you can reprint it from fmjfee.com or contact SEVP. If your visa is denied, you won’t need to pay again within 12 months if it’s the same category. Reapplying within 12 months in the same category means no additional fee.

How J1 Visa Exchanges Can Help

J1 Visa Exchanges, we can verify your DS‑2019, guide you through fee payment, and help resolve any issues. Reach out—we’re here to support your smooth J‑1 journey.

The SEVIS I‑901 fee is a small but vital part of your J‑1 visa process. Pay it properly, keep your receipt safe, and you’ll be one step closer to your U.S. experience. Let J1 Visa Exchanges help you complete complex J1 visa processing steps with confidence. Contact us for more information!