The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has issued a notice inviting public comments on the continued use of Form I-901, Fee Remittance for Certain F, J, and M Nonimmigrants. The proposal seeks an extension of the current data collection process without changes, in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
What is Form I-901?
Form I-901 is a critical part of the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) that tracks and monitors F-1 academic students, M-1 vocational students, and J-1 exchange visitors in the United States. This form is used to remit the SEVIS fee, which supports the operations of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), a web-based system used by DHS to maintain real-time data on nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors.
All principal applicants in these categories — including their dependents (F-2, M-2, and J-2) — are subject to the SEVIS fee prior to the issuance of a visa or admission to the United States.
Key Details from the ICE Notice
- OMB Control Number: 1653–0034
- Form Title: Fee Remittance for Certain F, J, and M Nonimmigrants
- Estimated Respondents: 902,586
- Average Response Time: 13 minutes per submission
- Total Public Burden: 194,959 annual hours
- Comment Deadline: August 1, 2025
- Submission Portal: www.regulations.gov, referencing docket ID ICEB–2007–0002–0001
Why Is This Important for International Students and Exchange Visitors?
The reauthorization of Form I-901 impacts all new applicants for F, J, and M visa categories. Ensuring the process remains accessible and accurate is essential for smooth visa issuance and lawful entry into the U.S.
This collection also plays a key role in national security and compliance oversight, as mandated by section 641 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRIRA), 8 U.S.C. § 1372.
How to Submit a Comment
U.S. stakeholders — including foreign nationals, sponsoring institutions, and legal professionals — are encouraged to submit feedback on the proposed continuation. Comments may address:
- The necessity and utility of the form;
- The accuracy of DHS’s burden estimates;
- Suggestions to improve clarity or efficiency;
- Technological solutions to reduce respondent burden.
To participate, visit the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov and submit your comments referencing OMB Control Number 1653–0034 and Docket ID ICEB–2007–0002–0001.
Disclaimer: This update is based on official notices from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as of May 28, 2025. For case-specific advice, consult with a licensed immigration attorney. Ahluwalia Law Offices continues to monitor all developments impacting nonimmigrant visa holders.
