Students: SEVP Will Never Call You to Collect Your I-901 SEVIS Fee
May 13, 2015
Students, please remember that the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) will not call you on the telephone to collect any payments or personal information, including payment for the I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Fee.
Recently, SEVP became aware that scammers are targeting students in the Chicago area in an attempt to solicit funds on behalf of the I-901 SEVIS Fee. Scammers request those targeted to send up to $4,000 to avoid deportation. The scammers are using the ‘Location Services’ app on students’ cellular devices to find the students’ location and threaten them with continued pursuit if they do not receive the money.
What to do if you receive a call
If you receive any phone calls from a person attempting to collect an I-901 SEVIS Fee or any other payment on behalf of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or SEVP, hang up immediately and call your local Police Department. Then you should contact your designated school official (DSO).
Your DSO should report the incident to SEVP. Do not give the caller any personal information, and do not attempt to transfer funds to them or release any financial or banking information.
I-901 SEVIS Fee reminders
All F and M students must pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee. If you do not have a valid I-901 SEVIS Fee in your SEVIS record, you will receive a letter from SEVP via the U.S. Postal Service requesting payment. The letter will outline the necessary steps you must take to pay the fee, as well as information on who to contact with your questions. Your DSO will also receive an email explaining your need to pay the fee. Read Paying Your I-901 SEVIS Fee to learn more about the fee.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact your DSO or the SEVP Response Center at SEVP@ice.dhs.gov. Share this information with your international friends and classmates on Facebook and Twitter to help them #avoidscams.