USCIS

Form I-539

Rev. 08/21/25

Application to Extend or Change Nonimmigrant Status

Apply to extend or change nonimmigrant status.

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Plain English

Form I-539 lets you extend your stay in the U.S. or switch to a different visa status without leaving the country. For example, extending an F-1 student visa or changing from a tourist visa (B-2) to student visa (F-1) status.

Quick Facts

Who: Nonimmigrants currently in the U.S. who need to extend their stay or change to a different nonimmigrant status.
What: Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status — extends your current status or switches to a new visa category without leaving the U.S.
When: Before your current authorized stay expires. USCIS recommends filing at least 45 days before status expires.
Where: Filed with USCIS by mail with supporting documents and fee.
Why: Overstaying your authorized period accrues unlawful presence and may trigger bars to re-entry. I-539 keeps you legal while extending or changing status.
How: Provide personal info, I-94 number, current immigration status and expiration, application type (extension or change), reason, and supporting documents (bank statements, school enrollment, etc.).

Common Risks & Mistakes

  • •Filing after status expires — overstay may be forgiven if filed within 30 days and shows good cause, but best to file before
  • •Insufficient financial support evidence — must show ability to support yourself during extended stay
  • •Applying for extension in B-1/B-2 — B status extensions are scrutinized; excessive time as a visitor raises flags
  • •Change of status unavailable for certain categories — some visas (like B-1) have different rules than others
  • •I-94 not found or incorrect — must have valid I-94 record to extend/change status

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Field-by-Field Guide

Part 1
Full Legal NameREQUIREDtext

Your name as on your passport.

Date of BirthREQUIREDdate

MM/DD/YYYY

Country of Birth & CitizenshipREQUIREDtext

Country of birth and current passport citizenship.

I-94 Admission NumberREQUIREDtext

The 11-digit admission number from your most recent I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record).

Current Nonimmigrant StatusREQUIREDtext

Your current visa classification (B-2, F-1, J-1, etc.) and the date your status expires.

Part 2
Application TypeREQUIREDselect

Extension of stay (same status) or change of status (to different classification).

Reason for Extension/ChangeREQUIREDtext

Explain why you need more time or a different status. Be specific and truthful.

Signature
Applicant SignatureREQUIREDsignature

Must be signed by the applicant.

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Form Stats

8
Fields
8
Required
3
Sections

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Disclaimer: We do not provide legal advice. We translate legal language into plain English and help you prepare for a conversation with a lawyer.