If for any reason you want to extend your stay in the United States, you need to file your request with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Submit your request using Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. You must file before your authorized stay expires.
Keep in mind that you should file Form I-539 at least 45 days before the end of your authorized stay. If you overstay your visa, even by accident, you risk deportation. Determine if you are eligible to extend your U.S. visa.
A close-up of a U.S. visa. Be sure to extend your U.S. visa before it expires by filing Form I-539 on time.
What Is the Purpose of Using Form I-539?
Form I-539 can be used to extend your stay in the United States or change to another visa status. Individuals seeking to submit Form I-539 must file before their visa expires. USCIS recommends applicants file early to allow for processing.
Who Can Submit to Extend or Change Nonimmigrant Status?
Not every U.S. visitor is eligible for a visa extension or change to non-immigrant status. In general, you may apply if you entered the United States legally and your visa is active. The following visa types may use Form I-539:
- A and A-3 visa holders and their immediate family members
- B1, B2
- Student visa holders F-1, M-1 and J-1
- G and G-5 visa holders and their immediate family members
- V
- Dependents of CW-1, E, E-2
- Australian Specialty Occupation Worker
- H, L, O, P, R, and TN (TD) visa holders
You may not apply for a U.S. visa extension if:
- You entered the U.S. illegally
- You entered the U.S. on a fiancé visa
- You hold a D nonimmigrant visa
- You are an informant or accompanying family member
- You have violated the conditions of your admission to the U.S.
- You have committed crimes that make you ineligible for a visa
USCIS Filing fees for Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status (Form I-539)
Requesting a U.S. visa extension will have filing fees. You can expect to pay a total of $575 to file for a U.S. visa extension or change of status. This includes:
- $295 for FileRight application package preparation
- $470 USCIS filing fee for Form I-539
USCIS won’t refund your money, even if your application is denied. FileRight will help ensure your application is correct and complete.
Special Considerations Regarding COVID-19
In the past, special arrangements have been made for travelers. The COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented border closures, making it impossible for many U.S. visitors to return home.
In this case, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has offered flexibility to visa waiver program travelers. This visa waiver grants a 30-day extension to any affected travelers.
What Happens After You Apply to Extend a U.S. Visa?
After USCIS receives your Form I-539 to extend your U.S. visa, they will process your application. You will be sent confirmation by mail.
It may take up to 16 months before you receive notice of a decision. Processing time varies by service centers. You may remain in the United States while you wait for approval. USCIS will postpone any removal proceedings while your extension is pending.
