The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is the U.S. government database used to track and manage all J-1 Exchange Visitor Program participants.
It is operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and works in coordination with the Department of State (DOS).
SEVIS ensures that every participant, sponsor, and program follows federal regulations.
What Is SEVIS?
SEVIS is an online system that maintains required information about:
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J-1 participants
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Their program category and dates
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Their host organization
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Their sponsor’s oversight activities
Each participant has a unique SEVIS ID number (begins with “N”), which appears on the DS-2019 form.
What Information SEVIS Tracks
According to DHS and DOS guidelines, SEVIS includes:
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Personal information (name, DOB, nationality)
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Program category and subject field
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Start and end dates
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Training site information
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Sponsor details
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Address changes and program updates
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Status (active, completed, extended, terminated)
Connection to the DS-2019
Sponsors use SEVIS to:
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Create and issue the DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility
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Update participant information
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Report extensions or early completion
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Maintain compliance records
A DS-2019 is only valid if it is created through SEVIS and accurately reflects the program details.
Sponsor Responsibilities
Sponsors are required by 22 CFR Part 62 to:
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Maintain accurate SEVIS records
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Report any changes in the participant’s program
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Monitor the participant’s progress and well-being
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Ensure compliance with program rules
Only the sponsor—not the participant or host company—can update SEVIS.
Participant Responsibilities
Participants must:
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Give accurate information to the sponsor
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Report any changes in address, phone number, or training site
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Keep their DS-2019 valid
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Respond to sponsor monitoring requirements
Participants do not directly access SEVIS but must ensure their sponsor has correct information.
SEVIS in the Visa Process
U.S. consular officers use SEVIS to verify:
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DS-2019 details
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Sponsor authorization
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SEVIS fee payment (I-901)
At the U.S. port of entry, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) checks SEVIS again to confirm program validity.
Why SEVIS Matters
SEVIS helps the U.S. government:
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Monitor exchange programs
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Ensure program integrity
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Protect participants and host organizations
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Enforce federal regulations
Accurate SEVIS records are essential for maintaining lawful J-1 status.
Summary
SEVIS is the central system that supports the entire J-1 Exchange Visitor Program.
It connects the DS-2019, visa processing, sponsor oversight, and federal compliance.
Understanding SEVIS helps participants and host companies meet all U.S. government requirements.
Reference Sources:
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U.S. Department of Homeland Security — SEVIS Information
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U.S. Department of State — Exchange Visitor Program
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22 CFR Part 62 (Program Regulations)
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FMJFee I-901 SEVIS Fee: https://fmjfee.com
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BridgeUSA Official Site: https://j1visa.state.gov
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