What order should I follow when paying my US student visa fees from India?
Typically you receive your I-20, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, complete the DS-160, pay the MRV fee, book and attend your interview, and pay the Visa Integrity Fee only if approved. Check the official visa portal for the latest steps.
Follow the sequence strictly: I-20 first, then the SEVIS I-901 fee, then the DS-160, then the MRV fee, and the Visa Integrity Fee only after approval. Skipping ahead is risky because your interview booking needs your MRV receipt number. Check the official visa scheduling portal for the latest rules.
Payment Order for the US Student Visa
| Step | What you do | Fee typically listed |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Get your I-20 | Your US university sends it after you accept admission, and it carries your SEVIS ID | No fee listed |
| 2. Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee | Use your SEVIS ID at FMJfee.com and save the receipt | USD 350 (approx INR 33,285) |
| 3. Fill the DS-160 | This is your online visa application | No fee listed |
| 4. Pay the MRV fee | Pay online or through an approved bank in India | USD 185 (approx INR 17,594) |
| 5. Book your interview | Use the US Visa Scheduling Portal with your MRV receipt number | No fee listed |
| 6. Attend the interview | Go to the US Embassy or a Consulate in India | No fee listed |
| 7. Pay the Visa Integrity Fee | Charged only at this final stage if you are approved, not before | USD 250 (approx INR 23,775) |
| 8. Collect your passport | Through premium delivery or in person | No fee listed |
Payment Methods and Checks
- Accepted methods for the MRV and SEVIS fees typically include UPI, NEFT and cash deposit at select Axis Bank branches.
- Options differ by city, so confirm yours on the official visa scheduling portal.
- Keep every payment receipt, since you will need them at later steps.
My Advice
Make a simple checklist in this exact order and tick each step only after you hold the receipt. Do not pay the Visa Integrity Fee in advance, because it is charged only after approval. Re-check amounts on the official pages before you pay.
Not sure which documents your US visa needs?
Interview prep, funds proof and timelines. Get a checklist for your case.
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