Extension of Stay
Extension of Stay
Change of status in the United States refers to the process by which a nonimmigrant already in the country applies to change their status to another category without having to leave the country. This process is common among individuals who wish to change from one nonimmigrant status to another, such as from tourist (B2) to student (F1).
What is Form I-539?
Form I-539, “Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status,” is the document you must submit to USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) to:
- Extend your stay in the U.S. if you have a valid nonimmigrant status.
- Change your status to another type of nonimmigrant visa.
- Extend your stay in the U.S.: If your nonimmigrant status allows for extensions.
- Change your nonimmigrant status: If you wish to change your nonimmigrant status to another visa type, such as from tourist to student or from visitor to temporary worker, depending on the available options.
When should you file Form I-539?
- Before your current status expires: It is recommended to submit the application at least 45 days before your I-94 expiration date.
- If you apply before your status expires, and while USCIS processes your case, you can generally remain in the U.S. until you receive a decision, even if your I-94 date has passed.
- Valid reasons for extension: You must justify why you need more time in the country. Common reasons include medical emergencies or situations beyond your control.
- Not all visas are eligible for extension: For example, individuals with a J-1 exchange visa with a two-year home residency requirement or those in a temporary status that does not allow extensions cannot apply for this benefit.
The extension application must be submitted to USCIS, who will decide to approve or deny the request based on the evidence provided and the applicant’s circumstances.
Extension of Stay
A warm greeting from TOTALVISA. We are deeply motivated by your interest in starting this exciting journey toward obtaining your extension of stay. 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 obtaining an extension of stay? 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 stage 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.