Visa Denied? Don't Let These 5 SEVIS Fee Mistakes Sabotage You

You've secured your admission and received your I-20 or DS-2019. You're so close! But a simple, avoidable mistake during your SEVIS fee submission can lead to a delayed or even denied visa. Here are the top 5 mistakes that applicants make, and how you can avoid them.

1. The Deadly Typo: Incorrect SEVIS ID.

   Your SEVIS ID (starting with 'N' on your form) is your unique identifier. Even one wrong digit means your fee submission will not be linked to your record. The consular officer will see "unpaid," and your interview will end right there. Action: Double, then triple-check your SEVIS ID before submitting.

2. The Procrastinator's Peril: Submitting Too Late.

   The SEVIS system is not instant. It can take up to 3 business days for a submission to be reflected. Submitting the day before your interview is a massive gamble. Action: Complete your SEVIS fee submission at least one week before your visa interview to be safe.

3. The Wrong Form, Wrong Fee: Mismatching Fee and Form.

   The fee for I-20 (F/M visas) holders is different from the fee for DS-2019 (J visas) holders. Submitting the wrong amount can invalidate your application. Action: Confirm your form type and ensure you select the correct one during the submission process.

4. The "I Forgot" Fumble: Not Bringing the Receipt.

   While the officer can verify payment online, they will almost always ask for the physical I-901 payment confirmation receipt. It's a required document. Forgetting it shows a lack of preparation. Action: Once your submission is complete, print your official receipt from the FMJFee website and keep it with your passport and other key documents.

5. The Risky Transaction: Using Unreliable Methods.

   Trying to complete the submission with payment methods that are often flagged for international transactions or using unreliable third-party services can lead to failed submissions and added stress. Action: Use a service built specifically for this purpose. SevisMate guarantees your submission is facilitated securely and provides you with confirmation you can trust.