Planning to apply for a J-1 visa in 2025? Here's a breakdown of all the costs involved.
If you're preparing to work or train in the hospitality industry in the USA through a J-1 visa program, it's important to understand the costs involved. While the J-1 visa is a great way to gain international experience, build your network, and improve your skills, it does come with a few upfront expenses.
In this blog, we’ll break down how much the J-1 visa costs in 2025, so you can plan ahead and focus on what matters most: making the most of your international hospitality journey.
1. SEVIS Fee – $220 USD
Before you apply for your J-1 visa, you’ll need to pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) I-901 fee, which is required for all J-1 visa applicants.
- Amount: $220
- Purpose: This fee supports the system that tracks and manages all J-1 visa holders during their stay in the USA.
- Payment Method: Online at fmjfee.com
After payment, you’ll receive a receipt, which you must bring to your visa interview.
2. DS-160 Application Fee – $185 USD
The next cost is the DS-160 visa application fee, also known as the MRV (Machine Readable Visa) fee.
- Amount: $185
- Purpose: This is the fee you pay when submitting your official J-1 visa application to the US Department of State.
- Payment Method: Online or via your local US embassy/consulate.
This is non-refundable, so make sure your documents are in order before paying.
3. Health Insurance – $50–$100/month
All J-1 visa holders are required to have health insurance that meets specific U.S. government guidelines.
- Amount: Typically $50 to $100 per month, depending on coverage.
- Duration: Must cover the entire time you're in the USA.
- What It Covers: Emergency services, hospitalization, repatriation, and evacuation.
Some sponsors (like Placement International) may include insurance in your program fee—always ask to confirm.
5. Additional Costs to Consider
- Travel expenses: Your flight to and from the USA will depend on your location and season—usually between $500 and $1,200 USD.
- Housing deposit: If housing isn’t included, you might need to pay a security deposit (approx. $300–$800 USD).
- Visa interview transportation: If your U.S. embassy is far, plan for travel or overnight stays.
- Translation or document certification: In some cases, you may need to pay to have documents translated or officially notarized.
Is It Worth the Investment?
Absolutely. A J-1 visa gives you the chance to:
- Work and train in top hotels, restaurants, and resorts
- Build international work experience
- Improve your English and cultural awareness
- Open doors for future job offers or management roles
For those interested in hospitality, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that can boost your career from day one.
Start Your Journey with Placement International
At Placement International, we make the J-1 visa process simple. Our team helps you with every step—from finding the right internship to preparing your paperwork and getting your visa approved. You’ll train with some of the world’s top hospitality brands, including Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton, Marriott, and more.
Ready to invest in your future? Apply now and start your J-1 visa experience with Placement International.
