Form I-539
How to Complete Form I-539? A Step-by-Step Guide
Form I-539 is an application used by individuals who wish to extend or change their nonimmigrant status in the United States. This form is used by a variety of nonimmigrant visa holders, including students, exchange visitors, and temporary workers. Completing Form I-539 can be a complicated process, but with the right guidance, it can be done quickly and accurately. Here is a step-by-step guide to completing Form I-539.
Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents
Before you begin filling out Form I-539, you must gather all the necessary documents. This includes your passport, Form I-94, and any other documents that prove your current nonimmigrant status. You will also need to provide evidence of your financial ability to support yourself during your stay in the United States.
Step 2: Complete Form I-539
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can begin filling out Form I-539. Start by entering your personal information, including your name, date of birth, and address. You will also need to provide information about your current nonimmigrant status, such as the type of visa you hold and the date it was issued.
Step 3: Submit Form I-539
Once you have completed Form I-539, you must submit it to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can submit the form online or by mail. If you submit the form online, you will need to pay the filing fee using a credit or debit card. If you submit the form by mail, you will need to include a check or money order for the filing fee.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
Once you have submitted Form I-539, you will need to wait for a decision from USCIS. The processing time can vary depending on the type of application you are submitting and the current workload of USCIS. You can check the status of your application online or by calling the USCIS Contact Center.
By following these steps, you can complete Form I-539 quickly and accurately. Remember to gather all the necessary documents before you begin, and make sure to submit the form to USCIS with the correct filing fee. Once you have submitted the form, you can wait for a decision from USCIS.
Understanding the Different Types of Visas That Can Be Applied For Using Form I-539
Form I-539 is an application used to apply for a variety of nonimmigrant visas. Depending on the purpose of the visit, there are several different types of visas that can be applied for using Form I-539.
The first type of visa that can be applied for using Form I-539 is the B-2 visitor visa. This visa is for individuals who are traveling to the United States for tourism, visiting family or friends, or for medical treatment.
The second type of visa that can be applied for using Form I-539 is the F-1 student visa. This visa is for individuals who are coming to the United States to pursue a full-time course of study at an accredited college or university.
The third type of visa that can be applied for using Form I-539 is the J-1 exchange visitor visa. This visa is for individuals who are coming to the United States to participate in an approved exchange visitor program.
The fourth type of visa that can be applied for using Form I-539 is the H-4 dependent visa. This visa is for individuals who are accompanying a principal H-1B, H-2A, or H-2B visa holder.
The fifth type of visa that can be applied for using Form I-539 is the L-2 dependent visa. This visa is for individuals who are accompanying a principal L-1 visa holder.
Finally, the sixth type of visa that can be applied for using Form I-539 is the O-3 dependent visa. This visa is for individuals who are accompanying a principal O-1 or O-2 visa holder.
It is important to note that Form I-539 is only used to apply for the above-mentioned nonimmigrant visas. If you are looking to apply for an immigrant visa, you will need to use a different form. Additionally, it is important to make sure that you meet all of the eligibility requirements for the visa you are applying for before submitting your application.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filling Out Form I-539
When filling out Form I-539, it is important to take care to avoid common mistakes that can lead to delays in processing or even denial of your application. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when completing Form I-539:
1. Not providing all the required information: Make sure to provide all the information requested on the form, including your name, address, date of birth, and other personal information.
2. Not signing the form: Make sure to sign the form in the designated area. If you are applying for someone else, they must also sign the form.
3. Not including the correct fee: Make sure to include the correct fee for the application. The fee can be paid by check or money order.
4. Not including supporting documents: Make sure to include all the required supporting documents, such as a copy of your passport, birth certificate, and other documents.
5. Not providing a valid mailing address: Make sure to provide a valid mailing address where you can receive mail from the USCIS.
6. Not providing a valid email address: Make sure to provide a valid email address where you can receive notifications from the USCIS.
7. Not providing a valid phone number: Make sure to provide a valid phone number where you can be reached in case the USCIS needs to contact you.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your application is processed quickly and accurately.
What to Expect During the Form I-539 Application Process
The Form I-539 application process is the process for applying for a change or extension of nonimmigrant status in the United States. It is important to understand the process and the requirements for filing the form in order to ensure a successful application.
The first step in the Form I-539 application process is to determine if you are eligible to apply. To be eligible, you must be a nonimmigrant who is currently in the United States and seeking to change or extend your nonimmigrant status. You must also meet the requirements for the specific nonimmigrant category you are applying for.
Once you have determined that you are eligible to apply, you must complete the Form I-539. This form requires you to provide information about yourself, your current nonimmigrant status, and the new status you are seeking. You must also provide evidence to support your application, such as copies of your passport, visa, and other documents.
Once you have completed the form and gathered the necessary evidence, you must submit the form and evidence to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can submit the form and evidence either online or by mail.
Once your application is received, USCIS will review it and determine whether you are eligible for the change or extension of status you are seeking. If your application is approved, you will receive a new I-94 form, which will reflect your new status.
If your application is denied, you will receive a notice explaining the reasons for the denial. You may be able to appeal the decision or submit a new application.
The Form I-539 application process can be complex and time-consuming. It is important to understand the requirements and to provide all the necessary information and evidence in order to ensure a successful application.
FAQ
What is Form I-539?
Form I-539 is an application used by nonimmigrants to apply for an extension of stay or a change of status in the United States.
Who can use Form I-539?
Form I-539 can be used by nonimmigrants who are already in the United States and wish to extend their stay or change their status.
What documents do I need to submit with Form I-539?
You will need to submit evidence of your current nonimmigrant status, evidence of your eligibility for the requested change or extension of status, and any other documents required by the form instructions.
How long does it take to process Form I-539?
The processing time for Form I-539 varies depending on the type of request and the USCIS office where the application is filed. Generally, it takes several months for the application to be processed.