According to reports from Washington, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has finalized an increase in the fees charged by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to international students, exchange visitors, and certified institutions. These fees are primarily used for the operation of the SEVP, including online system maintenance, personnel salaries, and program improvements. The new fee schedule will officially take effect on June 24, 2019.
The categories of increased fees include:
• The I-901 fee for F and M international students will increase from $200 to $350.
• The I-901 fee for J exchange visitors participating in au pair, camp counselor, and summer work travel programs will remain unchanged at $35; however, the full I-901 fee for other categories of J exchange visitors will increase from $180 to $220.
SEVP Director Rachel Canty explained the fee increase, stating, "The SEVP is a self-funded program that does not receive any federal appropriations. Fees have not increased since 2008, but the agency's operating costs have continued to rise due to inflation, program expansion, and system improvements. The new fee schedule will help us continue to provide oversight and assistance to international students and certified institutions."
Alipay Now Available for Visa Fee Payments
According to an announcement on the official U.S. visa website, Alipay was added as a visa fee payment option starting May 21. Previously, visa fees were primarily paid in cash at CITIC Bank counters or via online banking. The addition of Alipay as a payment option will provide greater convenience for visa applicants in China.
Please note:
• Regardless of the payment method used—whether Alipay, cash, or smart counters—the U.S. Embassy in China cannot provide Chinese invoices or receipts for payments made through the CGI system, CITIC Bank, or Alipay.
• Applicants must use the receipt number to schedule an interview.
• Both visa fee payments and interview scheduling must be completed through the U.S. visa online system (CGI).