Get the free USCIS Form I-539 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status

Get Form

We are not affiliated with any brand or entity on this form

Fill out

Complete the form online in a simple drag-and-drop editor.

eSign

Add your legally binding signature or send the form for signing.

Share

Share the form via a link, letting anyone fill it out from any device.

Export

Download, print, email, or move the form to your cloud storage.

Why pdfFiller is the best tool for your documents and forms

Learn more about security

End-to-end document management

From editing and signing to collaboration and tracking, pdfFiller has everything you need to get your documents done quickly and efficiently.

Accessible from anywhere

pdfFiller is fully cloud-based. This means you can edit, sign, and share documents from anywhere using your computer, smartphone, or tablet.

Secure and compliant

pdfFiller lets you securely manage documents following global laws like ESIGN, CCPA, and GDPR. It's also HIPAA and SOC 2 compliant.

What is Form I-539

The USCIS Form I-539 is an immigration application used by nonimmigrants in the United States to extend their stay or change to another nonimmigrant status.

pdfFiller scores top ratings on review platforms

Show more Show less

Fill fillable I-539 form: Try Risk Free

Rate free I-539 form

4.6

satisfied

44 votes

Who needs Form I-539?

Explore how professionals across industries use pdfFiller.

Form I-539 is needed by:

Nonimmigrant visa holders seeking an extension of their stay in the US.
Individuals wishing to change their nonimmigrant status.
F-1 or M-1 students applying for reinstatement.
Immigrants needing help with the application process.
Legal advisors assisting clients with immigration forms.
Students looking to understand their visa status options.

Comprehensive Guide to Form I-539

What is the USCIS Form I-539 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status?

The USCIS Form I-539 is a critical document for nonimmigrants in the United States who wish to apply for an extension of their stay or to change their nonimmigrant status. This form serves as a formal request to extend nonimmigrant status, ensuring individuals remain compliant with U.S. immigration laws.

Submitting the USCIS Form I-539 in a timely manner is essential, as it must be filed before the expiration of the current nonimmigrant status. Applicants might find themselves in various situations, such as extending their stay due to unforeseen circumstances or transitioning to a different nonimmigrant category.

Purpose and Benefits of the USCIS Form I-539

The primary purpose of the USCIS Form I-539 is to facilitate nonimmigrants who need to extend their stay or change their status. This form offers numerous benefits, including the ability to maintain legal status during the processing period, which is crucial to avoid any penalties that could impact future immigration applications.

For F-1 or M-1 students, reinstatement options are available through this form, enabling them to regain their legal status if they fall out of status for valid reasons. Understanding the benefits of the USCIS Form I-539 can help applicants navigate their immigration journey effectively.

Who Needs the USCIS Form I-539?

This form is intended for various nonimmigrant categories, including students, visitors, and certain work visa holders. It is crucial for applicants, whether they are applying for the first time or seeking extensions or changes, to recognize their eligibility for the form.

Students wishing to extend their F-1 or M-1 status
Visitors seeking to change to another nonimmigrant status
Individuals interested in transitioning from a temporary work visa

Understanding who needs the USCIS Form I-539 ensures that potential applicants proceed with the correct documentation and appropriate timelines.

Eligibility Criteria for the USCIS Form I-539

To qualify for the USCIS Form I-539, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria relevant to their nonimmigrant status. The requirements vary depending on the category under which they are applying.

Valid documentation proving current nonimmigrant status
Specific guidelines for students, tourists, or business visa holders
Evidence of intent to leave the U.S. upon expiration of the requested status

As part of the eligibility process, applicants should prepare all necessary documentation to ensure a smooth application experience and mitigate delays.

How to Fill Out the USCIS Form I-539 Application Online

Filling out the USCIS Form I-539 online involves a few key steps that streamline the submission process. Firstly, access the form through the USCIS website or the designated portal.

Select the appropriate application type for your situation.
Carefully fill out all required fields, ensuring accuracy.
Review your submission for common challenges such as incomplete fields or incorrect information.

Utilizing online resources and tools can significantly ease the form completion process.

Required Documents and Supporting Materials

Applicants must submit specific supporting documents along with their USCIS Form I-539. The required materials vary significantly depending on the applicant's nonimmigrant category.

Current passport and visa copies
Evidence of financial support during the stay
Form I-20 or DS-2019 for F-1 or M-1 students

Ensuring all documents are accurate and complete will enhance the likelihood of a successful application submission.

Submission Methods for the USCIS Form I-539

There are two primary methods for submitting the USCIS Form I-539: online and by mail. Each method has its own set of instructions and destination addresses that applicants must follow.

Online submissions require creating an account on the USCIS website.
Mail submissions should be sent to the designated USCIS address for your specific nonimmigrant category.

Applicants should be aware of potential issues that might arise after submission, such as delays or requests for additional information.

Fees, Deadlines, and Processing Time for the USCIS Form I-539

The filing fees for the USCIS Form I-539 are crucial for applicants to consider as they vary based on the application type. It's important for applicants to know the current fees and the means available for payment.

Be mindful of filing deadlines to prevent status expiration.
Expect processing times that may differ based on USCIS workload.

Having this information ensures that applicants are well-prepared as they navigate the application process.

How pdfFiller Can Assist with USCIS Form I-539

pdfFiller is a valuable resource for individuals tasked with completing the USCIS Form I-539. The platform allows users to edit, fill, and eSign documents securely, streamlining the application process.

Utilize pdfFiller’s intuitive interface to navigate and complete forms quickly.
Rely on the platform's strong security measures to protect sensitive information.

pdfFiller’s features are designed to ensure applicants can manage their immigration documents efficiently and securely.

Next Steps After Submitting the USCIS Form I-539

After submitting the USCIS Form I-539, applicants should take proactive steps to track their application status. It is vital to monitor any updates or requests from USCIS that may arise during the processing period.

Check the status on the USCIS website regularly.
Be prepared to respond to any USCIS correspondence promptly.

Following these guidelines can help applicants stay informed and engaged throughout the application process.

Last updated on Feb 18, 2015

How to fill out the Form I-539

1.

Access the USCIS Form I-539 on pdfFiller by visiting their website and using the search function to locate it directly.
2.

Once the form is open, use pdfFiller’s intuitive interface to navigate through the fillable fields.
3.

Gather all necessary information, including your current immigration status, personal details, and any supporting documents required for your application.
4.

Carefully fill in each section of the form, ensuring accuracy and completeness to avoid delays.
5.

After completing the form, review all entered information, particularly names, dates, and identification numbers for correctness.
6.

Utilize pdfFiller's tools to add signatures and make any necessary adjustments to the document as needed.
7.

Once satisfied, save your work within pdfFiller, or choose to download the filled form to your device for printing.
8.

Finally, follow pdfFiller's submission options to file your application electronically or ensure you send it through the mail if required.

FAQs

If you can't find what you're looking for, please contact us anytime!

Contact Support

Who is eligible to file Form I-539?

Form I-539 is available for nonimmigrant individuals in the US seeking to extend their stay or change their current nonimmigrant status.

What is the submission deadline for Form I-539?

You should submit Form I-539 before your current authorized stay expires, which will facilitate processing and prevent unlawful presence.

How do I submit Form I-539?

You can submit Form I-539 electronically through pdfFiller or by mailing a printed copy to the designated USCIS address based on your category.

What supporting documents are required with Form I-539?

Supporting documents typically include your current visa, proof of funds, and any specific documentation related to your desired nonimmigrant status.

What common mistakes should I avoid when completing Form I-539?

Common mistakes include missing signatures, incorrect personal information, and failing to include necessary documentation, which could delay processing.