SEVIS Fee Payment from East Africa: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia & Rwanda

East Africa is sending more students to the United States than ever before. Whether you're from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Rwanda, or another East African country, you need to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee before your US visa interview. Here's your regional guide for 2026.

Kenya

M-PESA is king for everyday payments, but it can't pay the SEVIS fee. Pay SEVISmate by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay instead, or use an Equity Bank or KCB card. $350 ≈ KES 46,000 at current rates.

Uganda

MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money are the dominant platforms, but neither can pay the SEVIS fee. SEVISmate takes cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay from Uganda. $350 ≈ UGX 1,300,000.

Tanzania

M-PESA Tanzania, Airtel Money, and CRDB Forex cards are options. SEVISmate serves Tanzanian students. $350 ≈ TZS 925,000.

Ethiopia

Ethiopian students can use CBE Birr, Amhara Bank, or telebirr for payments via SEVISmate. Direct fmjfee.com payments are often blocked. $350 ≈ ETB 19,000.

Rwanda

MTN MoMo Rwanda is widely used. Bank of Kigali and Equity Bank Rwanda also have USD card options. $350 ≈ RWF 465,000.

General Tips for East African Students

• Always verify SEVIS payment 3–5 business days before your interview
• Keep your I-20 or DS-2019 handy, you need the SEVIS ID to submit
• Your receipt from SEVISmate is your payment proof