How to Pay the SEVIS Fee from Ghana in 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)

Every Ghanaian student heading to the United States on an F-1, J-1, or M-1 visa must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee before their visa interview. As of 2026, the fee is $350 for F-1/M-1 students and $220 for J-1 exchange visitors. But paying in USD from Ghana can be a challenge. This guide walks you through all your options.

Why Is Paying the SEVIS Fee from Ghana Difficult?

The I-901 SEVIS fee must be paid directly to the US Department of Homeland Security via fmjfee.com. The site accepts US debit/credit cards and certain international cards — but many Ghanaian cards get declined due to international transaction blocks, daily limits, or insufficient USD balance.

Your Options for Paying from Ghana

• Use SEVISMate: The simplest option. Pay in GHS using Mobile Money (MTN MoMo, Vodafone Cash, AirtelTigo Money) or your local bank card. We handle the USD submission for you.
• Use a Dollar Card: Some Ghanaian banks (GTBank, Zenith, Absa) offer USD prepaid cards. Load them with the equivalent amount and pay directly on fmjfee.com.
• Ask a Relative Abroad: If you have a family member in the US or UK, they can pay on your behalf using your SEVIS ID from your I-20 or DS-2019.

Step-by-Step: Pay via SEVISMate

1. Go to sevismate.com and click "Pay SEVIS Fee Now"
2. Enter your SEVIS ID, name, and email from your I-20 or DS-2019
3. Select your priority level (Standard, Express, etc.)
4. Pay in GHS using Mobile Money or card
5. Receive confirmation and payment receipt within the same business day

Current Exchange Rate (2026)

The SEVIS fee for F-1 students is $350 USD. At current exchange rates, that is approximately GHS 5,000–5,500, though this varies daily. SEVISMate displays the current GHS equivalent on checkout so you know exactly what you pay.