Change of Status
Change of Status
Steps to Apply for a Change of Status in the USA
Check Your Eligibility
- Ensure that your current status in the U.S. and the visa category you wish to change to are eligible for a change of status. Not all visas allow for a change of status while staying in the U.S.
Complete Form I-539
- To change to another nonimmigrant status (e.g., from B2 to F1), you must fill out Form I-539, "Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status."
Gather Supporting Documents
- Valid Passport: It must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.
- Form I-94: Proof of your last entry into the U.S. (could be an electronic record if you entered after 2013).
- Proof of Eligibility for the New Status:
- For a change to F1 visa: Acceptance letter from the educational institution, Form I-20, and proof of sufficient funds.
- For a change to H1B visa: Job offer and approved labor petitions.
- Bank statements: To demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay.
- Explanation letter: Explain why you want to change your status and how you plan to meet the obligations of the new status.
Pay the Application Fee
- Check the current fee on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
Attend the Biometrics Appointment (if applicable)
- In some cases, USCIS will schedule an appointment for biometric data collection (fingerprints, photo, and signature).
Wait for the Decision
- USCIS will review your application and send you a notification of their decision. Processing times vary depending on the type of application.
Change of Status
A warm greeting from TOTALVISA. We are deeply motivated by your interest in beginning this exciting journey toward obtaining your Change of Status from a B2 visa to F1 status. We understand how important this step is for you, and we want to support you every step of the way. This form is designed to help you better understand your chances of success and provide you with a clearer view of what to expect.
Are you ready to discover your chances of successfully changing your status from a B2 visa to F1 status? With TOTALVISA, not only will you learn your odds, but you will also receive the right guidance to maximize your opportunities and ensure you’re well-prepared for every step of the process. Let’s get started!
Are you ready to take
the big step?
Anthony Artica
A lawyer graduated from Ricardo Palma University in Peru and registered with the Lima Norte Bar Association. In addition, he is a certified real estate agent from the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism at Ricardo Palma University, registered with the Ministry of Housing, Construction, and Sanitation of Peru, and a special associate of the Peruvian Association of Real Estate Agents (ASPAI).
He has experience in Immigration Law abroad as a level 2 volunteer, under the supervision of a qualified and licensed attorney from the organization NOMAS (No More A Stranger Foundation). His extensive experience as a participant in Work and Travel (J1), academic student (F1), and now in the process of obtaining U.S. residency through the EB-3 visa has given him a deep understanding of the challenges faced by immigrants. This has motivated him to create TOTALVISA Consulting LLC, a safe space dedicated to providing support and guidance to immigrants seeking to maintain legal status in the United States.
Alexandra Bocanegra
A Translation and Interpretation student at Ricardo Palma University, with solid experience in customer service across various sectors, which has allowed her to develop communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective and empathetic handling of complex situations.
She was a participant in the Work and Travel program with a J1 visa in the United States, an experience that provided her with a unique perspective on the immigration process and cultural adaptation in a new country. This personal experience has inspired her to combine her passion for languages with her interest in providing support to the migrant community.
Andrea Bocanegra
A graduate in Communication Sciences from the National University Federico Villarreal, with experience in audiovisual production in both the public and private sectors. She has written scripts, coordinated recordings, and directed institutional videos for social media and for the internal audience of her clients.
She was a participant in the Work and Travel program with a J1 visa, which allowed her to firsthand experience the immigration journey in the United States. This has motivated her to contribute to the migrant community, using her communication knowledge to assist those seeking to settle in a new country.
Katherin Carrasco
A Communication professional with 3 years of experience in developing strategies and graphic materials for internal communication, ensuring consistency with corporate identity. She has successfully coordinated internal and external events, including meetings, training sessions, and team-building activities, contributing to strengthening organizational culture and teamwork.
She has participated in the Work and Travel program with a J1 visa twice: first in California and then in New Mexico. These international experiences have allowed her to understand the challenges and needs of migrants, which has inspired her to become involved in supporting the migrant community. Her focus is on providing strategic communicative assistance to those seeking to settle in new environments, helping them adapt and thrive through clear and effective information.