SEVIS: What It Is and Why It Matters for J-1 Visa

What Is SEVIS?

The US government database that holds the records of F, M and J visa holders and their families.

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What SEVIS Is

The electronic database SEVIS collects information on foreign nationals and their accompanying spouses and dependents who enter the US on F, M or J visas.

Source: J-⁠1 Visa: Common Questions (US Department of State)

How It Affects You

Your DS-2019 is generated in SEVIS. Your sponsor records changes there, such as an early end to your program. Your Health Insurance has to cover the program dates recorded in SEVIS.

Source: J-⁠1 Visa: Common Questions for Participants · J-⁠1 Visa: Common Questions (US Department of State) · 22 CFR § 62.14: Insurance

FAQs

Is SEVIS the same as the SEVIS fee?

No. SEVIS is the database. The SEVIS Fee (I-901) is a separate fee of $220 for J visa applicants.

Source: ICE: I-⁠901 SEVIS fee

The Bottom Line

SEVIS is where your J-1 record lives. Your sponsor manages it, and your DS-2019 comes from it.

Related Terms

• 
  SEVIS FeeThe I-901 fee for the US exchange visitor database. For J-1 applicants it is $220.
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  DS-2019The Certificate of Eligibility your J-1 sponsor issues. You need it to apply for your visa.
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• 
  J-1 SponsorAn organization designated by the US Department of State to run J-1 exchange programs. Every J-1 participant needs one.
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  Health InsuranceCoverage every J-1 participant must have for the whole program, with minimum benefits set by US rules.
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  Grace PeriodThe 30 days after your J-1 program ends to prepare your departure from the US.
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  DocumentsWhat you, your host company and your sponsor need for a J-1 internship or traineeship.
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Sources

1. J-⁠1 Visa: Common Questions (US Department of State)
2. J-⁠1 Visa: Common Questions for Participants
3. 22 CFR § 62.14: Insurance
4. ICE: I-⁠901 SEVIS fee