14. Why do I have to pay the I-901 fee?
Answer
As of September 1, 2004, a fee of $100 is required for all NEW F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors who are applying for visas, and have immigration documents issued on or after September 1, 2004. The fee is also required for applicants for change of status to F-1 or J-1 and for F-1 students applying for reinstatement if they have been out of status for over 5 months.
F-1 students applying for reinstatement by travel will also be required to pay the fee, whether or not a new visa is required.
Spouses and minor children of students (F-2) do not have to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. However, if the spouse or minor child wishes to change status to F-1, he or she must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee before filing a change of status application.
http://www.iei.uiuc.edu/programs_sevis.html
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