Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status

Who needs this form?

People currently in the US on a temporary visa who need to either stay longer (extension) or change to a different visa category (change of status). Common filers include tourists who need more time, students changing programs, H-4 dependents, and others whose circumstances have changed.

What does it do?

Either extends your current period of authorized stay in the US for a longer period, or changes your nonimmigrant classification from one category to another — for example, from tourist (B-2) to student (F-1), or from J-1 to H-4.

Key requirements

• ✓ Currently in valid nonimmigrant status at the time of filing
• ✓ I-94 arrival/departure record showing your current status and authorized period of stay
• ✓ Evidence supporting the request — for F-1 change, include school acceptance letter and I-20
• ✓ Copy of your passport biographical page
• ✓ Explanation of why you need the extension or change of status
• ✓ Filing must be before your I-94 expiration date

Common mistakes to avoid

• ⚠ Filing after your I-94 expiration date — USCIS may deny for being out of status at the time of filing
• ⚠ Assuming a pending I-539 allows you to work — it does not; work authorization requires separate approval
• ⚠ Traveling outside the US while I-539 is pending — this usually abandons the application
• ⚠ Confusing I-539 (for nonimmigrant status changes) with I-129 (filed by employers for work status changes)
• ⚠ Not filing early enough — processing times are long and an expired I-94 with a pending I-539 can create complications

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