Form I-539
What is Form I-539?
Form I-539 is an application form used by individuals who are in the United States and want to extend or change their nonimmigrant status. It is specifically used for dependents of nonimmigrant visa holders who want to extend their stay or change their status to a different nonimmigrant category.
What are the types of Form I-539?
There are several types of Form I-539, each catering to different circumstances. The common types include:
Form I-539 - Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status
Form I-539A - Supplemental Information for Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status
Form I-539C - Change of Status to F or M Student
How to complete Form I-539
Completing Form I-539 requires attention to detail and accuracy. Here are the steps to follow:
01
Download Form I-539 from the official USCIS website or use a trusted online platform like pdfFiller.
02
Carefully read the instructions provided with the form to understand the eligibility criteria and required supporting documents.
03
Fill in the form with accurate and up-to-date information. Use black ink and write legibly.
04
Attach any necessary supporting documents as mentioned in the instructions.
05
Review the completed form and supporting documents to ensure everything is complete and accurate.
06
Submit the form and supporting documents by mail or electronically, depending on the filing instructions.
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Questions & answers
How long does it take for I-539 to be approved?
The processing time for Form I-539 varies depending on which service center handles your petition. Most I-539 petitions are handled in the Vermont Service Center, which typically takes about 12 – 16 months—though it can be as short as 9 months for individuals seeking an extension of stay as a U or T nonimmigrant.
Can I file I-539 myself?
Conditions to File Form I-539 Online. You may apply online to extend or change your nonimmigrant status if you meet the following conditions. You are applying: Only for yourself, without co-applicants. and.
What happens after I-539 is approved?
Once the Form I-539 is approved, the applicant is in a position to extend stay or transition to the new status (from the start date indicated on the Form I-539). Until receiving the approval, the applicant cannot engage in any activities that require being in the new status.
How much does it cost to file I-539?
$370. You and each co-applicant must also pay an $85 biometric services fee.
Why does I-539 take so long?
It has taken many months for USCIS to process the Biometrics due to the ASC Closures and limited capacity. Read USCIS Delays with 1.3 million Biometrics appointments to know more. You can check the I-539 – H4 Visa Historical Processing times to get an idea on the typical processing times.
Can I-539 be denied?
You should expect your I-539 to be denied unless it is meticulously well-documented. Your application will only be approved if you submit extensive documentation to show that you have strong ties to outside the United States.
