Do I have to pay the SEVIS fee every time I change schools?

When it comes to studying in the United States with an F visa, it is important to understand how fees and the processes for maintaining immigration status work. One relevant aspect is the SEVIS fee, which funds the system responsible for monitoring students and exchange visitors.

As a general rule, the SEVIS fee is paid only once, when you initialize your F-1 status. If you decide to change schools and transfer your F-1 registration to the new institution, it is not common for this fee to need to be paid again, provided that the transfer is done correctly and your student status is maintained without issues. However, it is essential to talk to the Designated School Official (DSO) at your new institution to confirm that all processes are being followed and that your SEVIS record will remain active.

It is worth mentioning that if, for some reason, your SEVIS record is terminated or if there is a gap between schools that results in the need for reactivation or issuance of a new I-20, there may be new instructions regarding the fee, although this is a less common scenario. Thus, each situation may have its particularities.

Regardless of the individual details of your case, it is always essential to comply with United States immigration laws. It is recommended to seek information from official sources and, if necessary, consult specialists in the area-always with caution to avoid scams and dubious offers that guarantee immigration outcomes. Staying well informed is the best way to ensure that your student status is preserved without setbacks during the school transfer.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.