Planning to study in the US as a Nepali student?
There are lots of processes, documents, and fees you’ll need to go through for your dream to come true.
Among all the processes, the SEVIS fee is one of them. You’ll need to pay the SEVIS fee, a required payment for all international students.
Like any other fee from other countries, the SEVIS fee Nepal tracks students during their US stay.
In this guide, we will cover everything about the SEVIS fee payment process, costs, and requirements for Nepali students.
What is SEVIS Fee?
Sevis Fee Meaning
The SEVIS fee is money you must pay before studying in America. It’s like paying for a service that helps the US government keep track of international students.
Role of SEVIS in tracking international students
SEVIS works like a big computer system that stores information about every foreign student in America.
It records which school you attend, what you’re studying, and how long you’ll stay.
This helps the government know where all international students are located.
Connection between SEVIS records and visa applications
When you pay the SEVIS fee, you’re paying for this system to work properly. Your SEVIS record is extremely important for getting your student visa.
Immigration officers check your SEVIS information during visa applications. Without paying this fee, your record won’t be complete, and you cannot get your visa approved.
Types of SEVIS Fees
There are many types of visas, meaning there are different types of fees as well.
- F-1 Student Visa
This is for the students attending universities, colleges, or academic programs. - J-1 Exchange Visitor
People who are participating in exchange programs and cultural exchanges. - M-1 Vocational Student
It is for students attending vocational, technical, or trade schools.
Why Nepal Students Must Pay the SEVIS Fee
- Required by Law
US rules require all international students to pay SEVIS fees before studying there. - Needed for Interview
You cannot book your visa interview appointment without paying this fee first. - Affects Approval
If you don’t pay the SEVIS fee, your visa application will be automatically rejected.
How Much is the SEVIS Fee Nepal?
The SEVIS fee amount is the same worldwide, so there is no need to search for the cheaper option.
F-1 students pay USD 350 for university programs.
J-1 exchange visitors pay USD 220 for most exchange programs.
M-1 vocational students pay USD 350.
These fees are set in US dollars and remain consistent globally. They have limited exemptions available.
More Costs to Consider
- Bank Fees
Our banks in Nepal will charge extra money for sending payments to America. That is usually 1-3% more - Money Exchange CostsThe
US dollar and Nepali rupee exchange rates are changing daily. This will affect your total payment - Online Payment Charges
Websites that process your payment add their service fees on top - Total Cost in NPR
You’ll likely pay around NPR 47,000-50,000, including all extra charges
How to Pay the SEVIS Fee from Nepal Bank?
Step-by-Step Payment Process
Preparation Requirements
First, gather your I-20 or DS-2019 form from your school. Then find your SEVIS ID number, and prepare personal information like passport details.
Online Payment Method
You need to visit the official SEVIS fee payment website and create an account.
Fill out the required form with your information.
You can also pay using international debit or credit cards from most Nepali banks. As they support online international transactions.
Bank Transfer Options
If online payment doesn’t work. You can visit your bank for a wire transfer.
Provide the official SEVIS banking information to your bank officer.
Wire transfers take 3-5 business days to process and include extra bank charges. Keep all payment receipts as proof for your visa interview appointment.
Nepali Banks Supporting SEVIS Payment
- Major Banks
Book an appointment with the US Embassy for the visa interview. Pay the $350 SEVIS fee at Nepal Investment Bank or any other bank. - Required Papers
You need a passport copy, a school admission letter, and bank forms filled out completely. - Time
It will take 3-5 working days to send your money.
Payment Verification
- Keep Your Receipt
Save the confirmation paper you get after paying. This proves you paid the fee. - Check Payment Status
Use the SEVIS website and your confirmation number to see if payment went through. - Problem Solving
If payment doesn’t show up in one week, call your bank first, then contact the SEVIS help center. - Save Everything
Keep screenshots and email confirmations as backup proof for your visa interview.
How Long is the SEVIS Fee Valid?
SEVIS Fee Validity Period
- 12-Month Rule
Your SEVIS fee payment stays good for 12 months from the day you paid it. - Extension Conditions
The fee remains valid if you continue studying without long breaks at the same school. - Program Changes
If you are changing your study program at the same school, it won’t affect fee validity.
When You Need to Pay Again
- School Transfer
If you are moving to a different school, you will be required to pay a new SEVIS fee. - Program Level Change
When you are going from undergraduate to graduate studies need another payment. - Long Breaks
When you take more than 5 months off from school, it makes your fee invalid. - Visa Problems
If your visa gets rejected and you reapply, you may need to pay again.
Protecting Your SEVIS Fee Investment
- Stay Enrolled
Keep attending classes without long gaps to maintain fee validity. - Save Documents
Keep all payment receipts and school papers in a safe place. - Know Refund Rules
Understand when you can get money back if plans change. - Plan Ahead
Think about possible program changes before paying.
Common SEVIS Fee Challenges for Nepali Students
Banking Complications
- Transaction Blocks
Some Nepali banks don’t allow international online payments or have strict limits. So do some good research on that. - Currency Limits
Your bank may not have enough US dollars available for the transaction. - Slow Processing
Bank transfers can take many days, causing delays in your visa application timeline. - Too Much Paperwork
Banks ask for lots of documents and forms that can be confusing to complete.
Solutions and Workarounds
- Try Different Methods
Use multiple payment options, like different cards or online payment services. - Get Help
Educational consultancies such as ICCC can assist with payment processing and guidance. - Ask for Support
Family or friends living abroad can help make the payment on your behalf. - Have Backup Plans
Keep several payment methods ready in case your first option doesn’t work.
SEVIS Fee Payment Tips for Nepal Students
Best Practices
- Pay Right Away
Make your SEVIS fee payment as soon as you get your I-20 form from your school. - Save Everything
You should keep multiple copies of your payment receipt, both on paper and saved on your computer. - Double Check
Always confirm your payment went through on the SEVIS website before going to your visa interview. - Give Extra Time
Pay at least 2-3 weeks before your visa interview to avoid any processing delays or problems.
Smart Planning
- Check Bank Rules
Ask your bank about international payment limits and requirements before trying to pay. - Have Backup Plans
Keep different payment methods ready in case your first option doesn’t work properly. - Get Help Early
Contact educational consultancies like ICCC if you face any payment difficulties or confusion. - Stay Updated
Check the SEVIS website regularly for any changes in fee amounts or payment procedures.
Conclusion
Paying the SEVIS fee is a crucial step in your journey to study in America.
The SEVIS fee might seem like just another expense. But it’s your gateway to American education.
Without this payment, you cannot schedule your visa interview or get your student visa approved.
Plan ahead by understanding your bank’s international payment rules. Then, have your backup payment methods ready.
Your dream of studying in the United States is achievable with proper preparation and guidance.
Don’t let payment challenges stop you from pursuing quality education abroad. The investment you make today in your SEVIS fee will open doors to countless opportunities tomorrow.
Need help with your SEVIS fee payment or other visa requirements? Contact ICCC educational consultancy today. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process. This will ensure your American education journey starts smoothly.
