Extend My Nonimmigrant Stay
If you want to extend your stay in the United States, we recommend that you apply at least 45 days before your authorized stay expires. If you remain in the United States after your authorized period of stay expires, you may be barred from returning and/or you may be removed (deported) from the United States. You also may be required to apply for a new visa in the country of your nationality.
Eligibility
Generally, you may be eligible to apply for an extension of your authorized period of stay if:
You are currently in the United States with a nonimmigrant visa;
- Your nonimmigrant visa status remains valid;
- You have not committed any crimes that make you ineligible for a visa;
- You have not violated the conditions of your admission; and
- Your passport is valid and will remain valid for the duration of your stay.
You can find the date your authorized stay expires in the lower right corner of your Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record.
For more information on eligibility and exceptions that may apply, see the Form I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Instructions and our Extend Your Stay page.
How to File
You may file online or by paper.
File Online
Not all nonimmigrants are able to file Form I-539 online at this time. You can check your eligibility on our website. If you are eligible, you may create a USCIS online account to file online and:
- Submit evidence and pay fees electronically;
- Receive case status updates about your case and see complete case history;
- Communicate with us securely and directly; and
- Respond to requests for evidence.
If you already have a USCIS online account, simply sign into your account to get started.
File by Paper
You must:
- Read the instructions for Form I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status;
- Complete and sign your Form I-539;
- Pay the filing fee and biometric services fee, if applicable; and
- Provide all required evidence and supporting documentation.
After You File
Once we receive your Form I-539, you will receive a:
- Receipt notice confirming we received your application;
- Biometric services notice, if applicable;
- Notice to appear for an interview, if required; and
- Notice of our decision.
Forms and Fees
- Form I-539
- Use our Fee Calculator to help determine your fee.