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What are the mandatory fees to apply for the F-1 visa?

Learn about the mandatory fees for the F-1 visa and the importance of following official guidelines for a safe and smooth process in the United States.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on June 29, 2025
2 min read
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The F-1 visa is intended for international students who wish to pursue academic studies in the United States. To ensure the process goes smoothly and without surprises, it is essential to understand the mandatory fees associated with applying for this visa and to always stay attentive to the country”s immigration rules.

In general terms, the mandatory fees to apply for the F-1 visa include, first, the SEVIS I-901 Fee. This fee, currently set at US$350, is essential to activate your registration in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), a tool that monitors your status while you are in the United States as a student. After paying this fee, it is necessary to keep the receipt, as it will be required during the interview at the consulate or embassy.

In addition to the SEVIS fee, there is the visa application fee that must be paid when submitting the application. Currently, this fee is US$160 – an amount that may be subject to change, so it is important to check the official U.S. Department of State website or the U.S. embassy page in your country to confirm the updated information.

In some cases, depending on the country of residence, there may also be a visa issuance fee charged, which varies according to reciprocity agreements established between the United States and the respective country.

It is worth emphasizing the importance of following all guidelines and deadlines set by the U.S. immigration authorities. Throughout your application process, it is advisable to seek information directly from official sources or specialized companies in this area – but always with caution. Avoid falling for scams or marketing campaigns that promise miraculous results, as strict compliance with laws and regulations is indispensable for any immigration procedure.

Staying updated and seeking reliable sources is fundamental for you to have a smoother and safer experience throughout the process. Good luck on your academic journey, and remember to periodically check the official conditions and fees, as they may be revised by U.S. authorities over time.

Learn more about F-1 Visa

Duration
Duration of studies
OPT (STEM)
Up to 3 years of work
CPT
Work during studies
Processing
2-8 weeks
All about F-1 Visa
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.

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What are the mandatory fees to apply for the F-1 visa?

Learn about the mandatory fees for the F-1 visa and the importance of following official guidelines for a safe and smooth process in the United States.

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