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Updated for 2025 · U.S. SEVIS Fee Guide

FMJFee: Complete SEVIS Fee Guide for F, M & J Visa Applicants (2025)

The FMJFee—also known as the SEVIS I-901 fee—is one of the most important steps before attending your U.S. student (F/M) or exchange (J) visa interview. This guide explains how much it costs, how to pay it, and the requirements you must follow for a smooth visa process.

What Is the FMJFee?

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The FMJFee refers to the SEVIS I-901 fee paid by F-1, M-1, and J-1 visa applicants. This fee supports the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), which tracks international students and exchange visitors during their stay in the United States.

The FMJFee is mandatory for:

  • F1 students (academic programs)
  • M1 students (vocational programs)
  • J1 exchange visitors (interns, trainees, researchers, au pairs, etc.)

FMJFee Amounts for 2025

The SEVIS fee varies depending on the visa category:

  • F1 Visa: $350 USD
  • M1 Visa: $350 USD
  • J1 Visa: $220 USD (most categories)

Some J-1 categories (like au pairs or camp counselors) may have program sponsor coverage. Always verify this with your DS-2019 sponsor.

When Do You Need to Pay the FMJFee?

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You must pay the SEVIS fee before you attend your visa interview. The steps usually go like this:

  • Receive your I-20 (F/M visa) or DS-2019 (J visa)
  • Pay your FMJFee on the official I-901 payment portal
  • Print your SEVIS fee receipt
  • Attend your visa interview with the printed receipt

You cannot attend your visa interview without paying this fee.

How to Pay the FMJFee Online (Step-by-Step)

1. Go to the Official I-901 SEVIS Fee Portal

Navigate to the official FMJFee/SEVIS portal (I-901). Always avoid third-party websites.

2. Enter Your SEVIS ID

Your SEVIS ID begins with “N00…” and is printed on your:

  • I-20 (for F1 and M1)
  • DS-2019 (for J1)

3. Enter Personal Details

Use the exact name and date of birth printed on your passport.

4. Pay the Fee

You can pay using:

  • Credit/debit card
  • International card
  • Third-party payment (sponsor)

5. Print the Receipt

After payment, you will receive a confirmation. Print multiple copies and also save a PDF on your phone/laptop.

Embassy officers often ask for the original printed SEVIS I-901 receipt—digital copies are not always accepted.

Documents Required for FMJFee Payment

You only need a few items to pay your SEVIS fee:

  • Your I-20 or DS-2019 form
  • Your SEVIS ID number
  • A valid passport
  • Payment card (or sponsor willing to pay)

Common FMJFee Mistakes to Avoid

  • Paying on an unofficial or fake website
  • Entering the wrong SEVIS ID number
  • Not printing the receipt before the interview
  • Paying the fee before receiving the correct I-20 or DS-2019
  • Using someone else’s information incorrectly for payment

What Happens If You Don’t Pay the FMJFee?

Your visa interview will not proceed, and even if it does, your application will be rejected instantly. The SEVIS fee is a legal requirement for all F, M, and J visa applicants.

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Why Paying the FMJFee Correctly Matters

While the FMJFee may feel like a simple payment, it plays a major role in your visa process. Officers often judge your preparation level by how organized your documents are—and the SEVIS receipt is one of the first documents they check.

Paying early, printing multiple copies, and keeping everything stored safely helps prevent last-minute stress and increases your confidence during the visa interview.

In short: Treat the FMJFee seriously. It’s a small step, but a crucial one on your journey to studying or participating in an exchange program in the United States.