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The Messersmith Law Firm, P.A. J-1 Waivers and INA §212(e)
J-1 Waiver Process

How Should the Department of State J-1 Waiver Fee Be Paid?

DOS currently requires the DS-3035 processing fee by qualifying check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State and specifies identifying information that should appear with the payment.

Reviewed by Peter Messersmith · 2026-09-14

Use a check or money order

The current fee instructions direct applicants to submit a check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State.

Use U.S. currency

DOS requires payment in U.S. currency and specifies the financial-institution requirements for payments made inside or outside the United States.

Include identifying information

DOS instructs the applicant to include the waiver case number if known, full name, and date and place of birth with the payment.

Verify the current fee before mailing

The amount is published on the DOS fee page and can change. Verify the current amount immediately before filing rather than relying on an old checklist.

Legal Authorities and Sources

  1. U.S. Department of State — J-1 Waiver Processing Fee
  2. U.S. Department of State — How to Apply for a J-1 Waiver
  3. U.S. Department of State — J-1 Waiver Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should the payment be payable to?

The U.S. Department of State.

Does DOS require U.S. currency?

Yes.

What identifying information should accompany the payment?

The case number if known, full name, and date and place of birth.

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