The Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee is a mandatory payment imposed by the US government and is obligatory for most applicants, including minors, intending to visit the US. This processing fee for visa applications is compulsory, regardless of the visa outcome. The MRV fee receipt holds a validity period of one year, granting students the flexibility to initiate their visa application within that timeframe based on their admission schedule.
Individuals planning to pursue studies in the USA and contemplating an imminent entry must submit the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee receipt as a prerequisite for commencing their USA visa application. Notably, the MRV fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
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This blog aims to share insights into the details of the MRV fee Receipt, shedding light on its significance and implications.
What is MRV Fee Receipt Number?
The full form of MRV is a Machine-Reading Visa. Any student planning to study or travel to the USA must pay the MRV fee to start the visa application process. The receipt obtained from the Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fee payment is the MRV Receipt number. This number serves as proof of payment for the visa application fee. The MRV fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
The MRV fee receipt is valid for a specific period. The MRV fee receipt number is handy when scheduling a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Why is the MRV Fee Receipt Compulsory for Applicants?
Although the MRV fee receipt is mandatory for most candidates, only some visa holders must complete the payment. Some visa types do not necessitate an MRV fee receipt for individuals applying for:
- An A or G visa for official travel
- A J visa to participate in a U.S. Government-sponsored program (programs starting with G-1, G-2, G-3, G-7)
- The applicant is a citizen of Canada or Bermuda
- The applicant holds a valid visa.
The MRV Fee receipt is compulsory for applicants not only because of the application process but also serves several other important purposes within the USA visa application process, such as:
- Mandating a visa application fee through MRV ensures that resources are allocated efficiently to execute the numerous steps in processing visa applications, from initial submission to the final decision.
- The amount collected through the MRV fee is used to maintain and update the technological infrastructure and systems used in the visa application process, enhancing the system’s overall security.
- This fee includes expenses related to maintaining the visa application system, personnel involved in processing, and other operational aspects.
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How do you register for the MRV Fee Receipt Payment?
Follow the steps mentioned below to register for MRV Fee receipt Payment:
Step 1- Visit the USA Visa Information and Appointment Services Website: Go to the official website for USA visa information and appointment services. Choose the country you are applying for and the type of visa, for example, student and business.
Step 2—Create a Profile or Log in and start the application process. If you’re a new user, create a profile on the website, or if you already have an account, log in using your credentials. Follow the instructions to provide the necessary information, including the purpose of the visit and personal details.
Step 3- Pay the MRV Fee: After providing the necessary details, you will be prompted to pay the MRV fee during the application process. Choose the payment method that is available for your location. The available payment options for Indian individuals include NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer), IMPS (Payment by Mobile Phone), or through Axis Bank or Citibank branches in India.
Step 4: Receive the MRV Receipt Number: After successful payment, you confirm that the fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. You should receive an immediate confirmation, which includes the MRV receipt number. This number is essential for scheduling a visa interview.
Step 5: Check Your Email and Schedule a Visa Interview: You will receive a confirmation email with important information, including the MRV receipt number and instructions for scheduling a visa interview. Use your MRV receipt number to schedule a visa interview at the USA Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. Follow the instructions provided on the website to schedule a visa interview.
It is important to note that the process instructions and payment procedure might differ depending on the type of visa you apply for and the country where you are applying. Therefore, visit the official website to be updated with the latest information.
Timeline for Visa Application Processing
| Payment Method | Interview Scheduling | Receipt number |
| Debit Card | Immediate upon online payment | Transaction Number |
| Cash | Next working day after 1:00 PM (if paid before 3:00 PM) | CGI Reference Number |
| Online Transaction | Next working day after 1:00 PM (if paid before 3:00 PM) | CGI Reference Number |
How to Generate MRV Fee Receipt?
To obtain the MRV fee receipt, you can follow the below-mentioned steps:
- Visit the USVAC website and identify the option to add the MRV fee reference number.
- After entering the MRV fee reference number, applicants can view and download the MRV fee receipt.
- Remember that the MRV fee remains accessible online from the moment of payment until one year from the payment date.
- You must download the receipt one year before it expires so that you can use it to schedule a USA visa interview.
Attending the scheduled initial interview is crucial to avoid any potential complications. Missing the interview may necessitate the payment of a second MRV fee to reschedule. Therefore, candidates are advised to select visa appointment dates when they are available to avoid the need for an additional fee.
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Important Points to Keep in Mind: MRV Fee Receipt
Understanding the significance of the MRV receipt and ensuring proper handling is essential for smooth progression through the USA visa application process. You should properly follow the instructions, keep the receipt safe, and use it at the USA embassy whenever required.
When dealing with the MRV (Machine Readable Visa) fee receipt for USA visa applications, it’s essential to keep several important points in mind:
- Confirmation Email:
- After paying the MRV fee, check your email for a confirmation message. The confirmation email may include crucial details, like the MRV receipt number and instructions for further steps.
- MRV Fee Receipt Number:
- The MRV receipt number is a unique identifier connected with your visa application fee payment. It is essential to schedule a visa interview.
- Print a Copy:
- Always Print a physical copy of the MRV receipt. You must bring this printed receipt to your U.S. Embassy or Consulate visa interview. A printed copy serves as a supporting document and proof of payment.
- Schedule Visa Interview Promptly:
- Use the MRV receipt number to schedule your visa interview promptly. There is often a specific validity period during which you can schedule the interview, so be mindful of any time restrictions.
- Check Validity Period:
- The MRV fee receipt has a validity period during which you can schedule a visa interview. Ensure you schedule your interview within this timeframe, as expired receipts may require a new payment.
- Secure Payment Information:
- If you paid the MRV fee online or through an electronic system, securely store any confirmation emails and transaction records related to the payment. This information may be helpful for reference.
- Accuracy of Information:
- Double-check the accuracy of the information on the MRV receipt, including your name, passport number, and other details. Any discrepancies should be addressed promptly.
- Follow Embassy/Consulate Instructions:
- Adhere to the specific instructions provided by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you apply. Different embassies may have procedure variations, so carefully follow the guidance provided.
- No Refund Policy:
- Remember that the MRV fee is generally non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied. Ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria before making the payment.
- Be Prepared for the Interview:
- The MRV receipt is a step toward scheduling a visa interview. Be well-prepared for the interview with all necessary supporting documents.
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Wind Up
Understanding the significance of the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee receipt is pivotal for individuals planning to embark on their journey to the USA. This mandatory fee, required by the US government, serves as the gateway to initiating the visa application process. Its non-refundable nature underscores the commitment involved in the application process. With a validity period of one year, the MRV fee receipt offers flexibility for students, allowing them to align their visa application with their academic timelines. Aspiring travellers should approach the MRV fee payment with diligence, adhering to guidelines provided by the U.S. Department of State to ensure a smooth and successful visa application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. How do I get a receipt for my MRV?
A. Complete the visa application on the U.S. Visa Information and Appointment Services website to obtain a receipt for your Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee payment. Choose your payment method and make the MRV payment. You’ll receive a confirmation with the MRV receipt number on-screen. Check your email for a confirmation message. Log in to your visa account to download the official MRV receipt, and print a copy for scheduling your visa interview.
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Q. How long is the MRV fee receipt valid?
A. The Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee receipt is typically valid for one year from the payment date. Applicants can use the receipt within this timeframe to schedule a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Initiating the application process and scheduling the interview within the receipt’s validity period is crucial. If the receipt expires before the interview is scheduled, a new MRV fee payment may be required. Therefore, applicants should be mindful of the receipt’s expiration date and plan their visa application process accordingly to avoid complications.
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Q. What is the MRV payment?
A. The MRV payment, or Machine-Readable Visa payment, refers to the mandatory visa application fee paid by individuals applying for U.S. visas. This payment is a prerequisite for scheduling a visa appointment and initiating the visa application process. The fee amount varies depending on the type of visa sought, and payment is typically made online through the designated payment portal.
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Q. Who pays the MRV fee?
A. The MRV (Machine-Readable Visa) fee is typically paid by individuals applying for U.S. visas. It is the responsibility of the visa applicant to cover this fee, which varies based on the type of visa they seek. Payments are made online through the designated portal before scheduling a visa appointment.
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Q. Is the MRV fee refundable?
A. No, the MRV fee for U.S. visa applications is generally non-refundable. Once paid, the fee cannot be refunded, even in the event of a visa application denial. Applicants are advised to consider this before making the payment, as it is a non-reversible transaction.
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Q. What is the complete form of the MRV fee receipt?
A. The complete form of MRV is a “Machine-Readable Visa.” The MRV fee receipt is a document that acknowledges the payment of the U.S. visa application fee. It is essential proof of payment required to schedule a visa appointment and proceed with the visa application process.
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Q. Can I pay the MRV fee online?
A. Yes, the MRV fee for U.S. visa applications can be paid online through the designated payment portal. Applicants can use various payment methods, such as credit or debit cards, to complete the transaction. It is a convenient and secure way to fulfil the visa application fee requirement.
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Q. Can I use the same MRV fee receipt for a rescheduled appointment?
A. In most cases, yes. The MRV fee receipt is generally transferable for a rescheduled appointment within the one-year validity period.
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Q. What should I do if I encounter issues with my MRV fee receipt?
A. If you encounter issues with your MRV fee receipt, such as loss or technical problems, it is advisable to promptly contact the official visa application centre or embassy for guidance and assistance.
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Q. What information does the MRV fee receipt contain?
A. The MRV fee receipt includes essential details such as the applicant’s name, passport number, visa category, payment confirmation number, and the amount paid for the U.S. visa application fee.
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Q. What is the significance of the MRV fee receipt?
A. The MRV fee receipt is crucial as it serves as proof of payment for the U.S. visa application fee. It is a mandatory document required for scheduling a visa appointment and progressing through the visa application process.
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