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Instructions for Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status - PDF Free Download
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1 Instructions for Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services USCIS Form I-539 OMB No Expires 08/31/2020 What Is the Purpose of Form I-539? You should use this application if you are one of the nonimmigrants listed below and wish to apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an extension of stay or a change to another nonimmigrant status. In certain situations, you may use this application to apply for an initial nonimmigrant status. You may also use this application if you are a nonimmigrant F-1 or M-1 student applying for reinstatement. When Should I Use Form I-539? You must submit an application for extension of stay or change of status before your current authorized stay expires. Even if you are approved for another status in the future, you will be required to file a Form I-539 to bridge any gap that might arise between the expiration of your current status and validity of your future status. Therefore, we suggest you file at least 45 days before your stay expires or as soon as you determine your need to change or extend status. Failure to file before the expiration date may be excused if you demonstrate when you file the application that: 1. The delay was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond your control; 2. The length of the delay was reasonable; 3. You have not otherwise violated your status; 4. You are still a bona fide nonimmigrant; and 5. You are not in removal proceedings. Who May File Form I-539? Extension of Stay or Change of Status Nonimmigrants in the United States may apply for an extension of stay or a change of status on this application, except as noted in the Who May Not File Form I-539 section of these Instructions. Multiple Applicants You may include your spouse and your unmarried children under 21 years of age as co-applicants in your application for the same extension or change of status, but only if you are all now in the same status or they are all in derivative status. You must complete Form I-539A for each person that you want to include on your application. If you need additional space, you may print additional copies of the Form I-539A to complete for additional co-applicants. NOTE: Extensions granted to members of a family group must be for the same period of time. The shortest period granted to any member of the family shall be granted to all members of the family. Nonimmigrant Categories This application may be submitted by individuals requesting the following nonimmigrants classifications, listed in alphabetical order: Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 1 of 17
2 1. A, Ambassador, Public Minister, or Career Diplomatic or Consular Officer and Their Immediate Family Members You must submit a copy, front and back, of Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record Number, for each person included in the application and Form I-566, Interagency Record of Request - A, G, or NATO Dependent Employment Authorization or Change/Adjustment to/from A, G, or NATO Status, certified by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) to indicate your accredited status. 2. A-3, Attendant or Servant of an A Nonimmigrant and the A-3 s Immediate Family Members You must submit a copy, front and back, of Form I-94 for each person included in the application. The application must be filed with: A. A copy of your employer s Form I-94 or approval notice demonstrating A status; B. An original letter from your employer stating: (1) Your duties; (2) That the employer intends to personally employ you for the entirety of your contract; and (3) Arrangements you have made to depart from the United States; and C. An original Form I-566, certified by DOS, indicating your employer s continuing accredited status. NOTE: There is no fee required for any A-1, A-2, or A-3 applicant with Form I B-1, Visitor for Business, or B-2, Visitor for Pleasure If you are filing for an extension/change, you must file your application with the original Form I-94 for each person included in your application. In addition, you must submit a typed or written statement explaining in detail: A. The reasons for your request; B. The reasons why your extended stay would be temporary, including what arrangements you have made to depart from the United States; and C. Any effect the extended stay may have on your foreign employment or residency. If you are applying for a change of B-1, visitor for business status, you must designate your desired status using the following classification in Part 2., Item Number 3.c. of Form I-539: A. B-1A, nonimmigrant who is the personal or domestic servant of a nonimmigrant employer; B. B-1B, nonimmigrant domestic servant of a U.S. citizen; C. B-1C, nonimmigrant who is employed by a foreign airline; D. B-1D, nonimmigrant who is a missionary; and E. B-1, all other visa classifications not designated above. 4. Dependents (CW-2) of a CW-1 Transitional Worker If you are filing for an extension/change of status as the dependent of an employee who is a CW-1 transitional worker, this application must be submitted with: A. Evidence of lawful presence in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) as defined in 8 CFR 214.2(w)(1)(v); and B. Evidence of each applicant s relationship to the CW-1 transitional worker, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate and proof of termination of any prior marriages; and Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 2 of 17
3 C. One of the following: (1) Form I-129CW, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker in the CNMI, filed on behalf of the CW-1 transitional worker; (2) A copy of the I-797 Receipt Notice related to the transitional worker s already pending petition; (3) A copy of the front and back of the transitional worker s most recent Form I-94; or (4) A copy of the I-797 Approval Notice showing the transitional worker has already been granted status for the period requested on your application. NOTE: Dependents of CW-1 transitional workers must apply for extension/change of status to CW-2 on this application. An employer must file Form I-129CW to obtain CW-1 status on behalf of an employee or prospective employee. 5. Dependents of a Principal E Nonimmigrant The principal E nonimmigrant classifications include: E-1 Treaty Traders and their E-1 employees, E-2 Treaty Investors and their E-2 employees, E-2 CNMI Investors, and E-3 Australian Specialty Occupation Professionals. NOTE: Dependents of E nonimmigrants receive the same classification as the principal. If you are filing for an extension/change of status as the dependent of a principal E nonimmigrant, you must submit the following with your application: A. A copy of the front and back of Form I-94 for each person included on this application; B. Evidence of each applicant s relationship to the principal E nonimmigrant, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate and proof of termination of any prior marriages; and C. At least one of the following: (1) Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, filed on behalf of the principal E nonimmigrant; (2) A copy of the I-797 Receipt Notice related to the principal E nonimmigrant s already pending Form I-129 petition; (3) A copy of the front and back of the principal E nonimmigrant s most recent Form I-94; or (4) A copy of the I-797 Approval Notice showing the principal E nonimmigrant has already been granted status for the period requested on your application. NOTE: Dependents of principal E nonimmigrants must use this application for extension/change of status to the same E classification as the principal. An employer must file Form I-129 on behalf of a principal E nonimmigrant who is currently in the United States. If the principal E nonimmigrant is not currently in the United States, he or she must contact a U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate abroad to apply for E classification. Dependent spouses of principal E nonimmigrants may not work upon approval of this application. To request work authorization, the dependent spouse must file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Dependent children of principal E nonimmigrants are not authorized for employment. 6. F-1, Academic Student To request a change to F-1 status or to apply for reinstatement as an F-1 student, you must submit a copy of your Form I-94, as well as a copy of the Form I-94 for each person included in the application. Your application must also include a copy of your Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student, issued by the school where you will study and you must submit documentation that demonstrates your ability to pay for your studies and support yourself, and any accompanying dependent family members, while you are in the United States. Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 3 of 17
4 NOTE: A change of status may be granted for a period up to 30 days before the report date or start date of the course of study listed on Form I-20. You must maintain your current, or other, nonimmigrant status up to 30 days before the report date or start date of the course of study listed on Form I-20 or your requested change of status may not be granted. F-1 Reinstatement In addition to the above documents, you must also submit evidence that your violation of status resulted from circumstances beyond your control or that your violation relates to a reduction in your course load that would have been within a Designated School Official s (DSO s) power to authorize, and that failure to approve reinstatement would result in extreme hardship to you. If you have been out of status for more than five months at the time of filing your request for reinstatement, you must also provide evidence that your failure to file within the five month period was the result of exceptional circumstances and that you filed your request for reinstatement as promptly as possible under these exceptional circumstances. F-1 Extensions Only use this application to request an extension if you were admitted for a limited duration as a student entering to study at a public secondary school. All other students seeking information concerning extensions should contact their DSO. 7. G, Designated Principal Resident Representative of a Foreign Government and His or Her Immediate Family Members You must submit a copy, front and back, of Form I-94 for each person included in the application, and Form I-566, certified by Department of State (DOS) to indicate your accredited status. 8. G-5, Attendant or Servant of a G Nonimmigrant and the G-5 s Immediate Family Members The application must also be filed with: A. A copy of your employer s Form I-94 or approval notice demonstrating G status; B. An original letter from your employer describing your duties stating that he or she intends to personally employ you and arrangements you have made to depart from the United States; and C. An original Form I-566, certified by the DOS, indicating your employer s continuing accredited status. NOTE: There is no fee required for any G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, or G-5 applicant with Form I Dependents (H-4) of an H, Temporary Worker If you are filing for an extension/change of status as the dependent of an employee who is an H temporary worker, you must submit the following with this application: A. A copy of the front and back of Form I-94 for each person included on this application; B. Evidence of each applicant s relationship to the H temporary worker, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate and proof of termination of any prior marriages; and C. At least one of the following: (1) Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, filed on behalf of the H temporary worker; (2) A copy of the Form I-797 Receipt Notice related to the H temporary worker s already pending Form I-129 petition; (3) A copy of the front and back of the H temporary worker s most recent Form I-94; or (4) A copy of the Form I-797 Approval Notice showing the H temporary worker has already been granted status for the period requested on your application. NOTE: Dependents of H temporary workers must apply for extension/change of status to H-4 on this application. An employer must file Form I-129 on behalf of the H temporary worker. Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 4 of 17
5 10. I, Representatives of Foreign Media and Dependents Nonimmigrants granted I classification may be admitted for the duration of employment. You do not need to file for an extension of stay as long as you work for the same employer in the same information medium. However, you must file this application to request a change of employer or a change in the information medium in which you work. To do this, select Part 2., Item Number 1. of Form I-539 and annotate change of employer or change of information medium next to that selection. If you are requesting a change of status to I nonimmigrant status, select Item Number 3.c. in Part 2. of Form I-539 and indicate I-Foreign Press in the space provided. To change your status to I, or to extend your stay in I nonimmigrant status due to a change of employer or information medium, you must submit the following with your application: A. A copy of the front and back of Form I-94 for each person included on this application; B. A letter from the employing foreign media organization that verifies the employment, establishes that you are a representative of that media organization, and describes the remuneration and work to be performed; and C. If applicable, evidence of each dependent s relationship to the principal, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate and proof of termination of any prior marriages. (NOTE: Dependents of I nonimmigrants receive the same classification as the principal.) 11. J-1, Exchange Visitor If you are requesting a change of status to J-1 nonimmigrant classification, your application must be filed with a DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status. You must also submit your Form I-94, as well as the Form I-94 for each person included in the application. NOTE: A change of status may be granted for a period up to 30 days before the report date or start date of the approved program listed on Form DS You must maintain your current, or other, nonimmigrant status up to 30 days before the report date or start date of the approved program listed on Form DS-2019 or your requested change of status may not be granted. J-1 Extensions If you are a J-1 exchange visitor seeking an extension of nonimmigrant status, contact the responsible officer of your program for information about this procedure. J-1 Reinstatement If you are a J-1 exchange visitor seeking reinstatement, contact the responsible officer at your sponsoring program for information about the reinstatement procedure. Notice to J Nonimmigrants A J-1 exchange visitor whose status is to receive graduate medical education or training, and who has not received the appropriate waiver, is ineligible for change of status except to a nonimmigrant T or U visa. In addition, a J-1 exchange visitor who is subject to the foreign residence requirement, and who has not received a waiver of that requirement, is only eligible for a change of status to a nonimmigrant A, G, T, or U visa. If a J-1 exchange visitor is subject to the foreign residence requirement, the J-2 dependent is also subject as a derivative to this requirement. If the J-1 exchange visitor obtains a waiver of the foreign residence requirement, the J-2 dependent is also exempt from the requirement. Under certain limited circumstances, a J-2 dependent may be independently eligible for a waiver of the foreign residence requirement. A former J nonimmigrant (either a J-1 principal or a J-2 dependent) subject to the foreign residence requirement, who is currently maintaining another nonimmigrant visa status, continues to be subject to the foreign residence requirement. As noted above, the former J nonimmigrant is ineligible for a change of status until he or she fulfills the foreign residence requirement or obtains the appropriate waiver. Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 5 of 17
6 If you are a current or former J nonimmigrant, you must provide information about this status, including the dates you maintained status as a J-1 exchange visitor or a J-2 dependent. Willful failure to disclose this information (or other relevant information) can result in your application being denied. Provide proof of this status along with your application, such as a copy of Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, or a copy of your passport that includes the J visa stamp. 12. Dependents (L-2) of an L, Intracompany Transferee If you are filing for an extension/change of status as the dependent of an employee who is an L intracompany transferee, you must submit the following with this application: A. A copy of the front and back of Form I-94 for each person included on this application; B. A copy of the front and back of Form I-94 for each person included on this application; C. At least one of the following: (1) Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, filed on behalf of the L intracompany transferee; (2) A copy of the I-797 Receipt Notice related to the L intracompany transferee s already pending Form I-129 petition; (3) A copy of the front and back of the L intracompany transferee s most recent Form I-94; or (4) A copy of the I-797 Approval Notice showing the L intracompany transferee has already been granted status for the period requested on your application. NOTE: Dependents of L intracompany transferees must apply for extension/change of status to L-2 on this form. An employer must file Form I-129 on behalf of the L intracompany transferee. Dependent spouses of L intracompany transferees may not work upon approval of this application. To request work authorization, the dependent spouse must file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Dependent children of L intracompany transferees are not authorized for employment. 13. M-1, Vocational or Non-Academic Student To request a change to or extension of M-1 status, or apply for reinstatement to M-1 status, you must submit your Form I-94, as well as Form I-94 for each person included in the application. Your application must also include a copy of your Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student, issued by the school where you will study and you must submit documentation that demonstrates your ability to pay for your studies and support yourself, and any accompanying dependent family members, while you are in the United States. NOTE: A change of status may be granted for a period up to 30 days before the report date or start date of the course of study listed on Form I-20. You must maintain your current, or other, nonimmigrant status up to 30 days before the report date or start date of the course of study listed on Form I-20 or your requested change of status may not be granted. M-1 Reinstatement In addition to the above documents you must also submit evidence that your violation of status resulted from circumstances beyond your control or that your violation relates to a reduction in your course load that would have been within a DSO s power to authorize, and that failure to approve reinstatement would result in extreme hardship to you. If you have been out of status for more than five months at the time of filing your request for reinstatement you, must also provide evidence that your failure to file within the five month period was the result of exceptional circumstances and that you filed your request for reinstatement as promptly as possible under these exceptional circumstances. Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 6 of 17
7 M-1 Extension In addition to submitting the above evidence, you will need to submit evidence supporting your reason for requesting an extension. You may request an extension of stay for the following reasons: A. If compelling educational or medical reasons have resulted in a delay to your course of study. Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for program extension. B. You are transferring to a different school. NOTE: If you are transferring schools six months, or more, from the date you were first admitted, you will need to submit evidence showing you are unable to remain at the school you were initially admitted to attend due to circumstances beyond your control. C. You are applying for post-completion optional practical training. NOTE: M-1 students may not change their educational objective and should not request an extension for this reason. No extension can be granted to an M-1 student if the M-1 student is unable to complete the course of study, to include any requested post-completion OPT, within three years of the original program start date. 14. Dependents (O-3) of an O, Alien of Extraordinary Ability or Achievement If you are filing for an extension/change of status as the dependent of an employee who is an O nonimmigrant worker, you must submit the following with this application: A. A copy of the front and back of Form I-94 for each person included on this application; B. Evidence of each applicant s relationship to the O nonimmigrant worker, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate and proof of termination of any prior marriages; and C. At least one of the following: (1) Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, filed on behalf of the O nonimmigrant worker; (2) A copy of the Form I-797 Receipt Notice related to the O nonimmigrant worker s already pending Form I-129 petition; (3) A copy of the front and back of the O nonimmigrant worker s most recent Form I-94; or (4) A copy of the Form I-797 Approval Notice showing the O nonimmigrant worker has already been granted status for the period requested on your application. NOTE: Dependents of O nonimmigrant workers must apply for extension/change of status to O-3 on this form. An employer must file Form I-129 on behalf of the O nonimmigrant worker. 15. Dependents (P-4) of a P, Artist, Athlete, or Entertainer If you are filing for an extension/change of status as the dependent of an employee who is a P nonimmigrant worker, you must submit the following with this application: A. A copy of the front and back of Form I-94 for each person included on this application; B. Evidence of each applicant s relationship to the P nonimmigrant worker, such as birth certificate or marriage certificate and proof of termination of any prior marriages; and C. At least one of the following: (1) Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, filed on behalf of the P nonimmigrant worker; (2) A copy of the Form I-797 Receipt Notice related to the P nonimmigrant worker s already pending I-129 petition; (3) A copy of the front and back of the P nonimmigrant worker s most recent Form I-94; or (4) A copy of the Form I-797 Approval Notice showing the P nonimmigrant worker has already been granted status for the period requested on your application. Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 7 of 17
8 NOTE: Dependents of P nonimmigrant workers must apply for extension/change of status to P-4 on this form. An employer must file Form I-129 on behalf of the P nonimmigrant worker. 16. Dependents (R-2) of an R, Religious Worker If you are filing for an extension/change of status as the dependent of an employee who is an R religious worker, you must submit the following with this application: A. A copy of the front and back of Form I-94 for each person included on this application; B. Evidence of each applicant s relationship to the R religious worker, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate and proof of termination of any prior marriages; and C. At least one of the following: (1) Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, filed on behalf of the R religious worker; (2) A copy of the Form I-797 Receipt Notice related to the R religious worker s already pending Form I-129 petition; (3) A copy of the front and back of the R religious worker s most recent Form I-94; or (4) A copy of the Form I-797 Approval Notice showing the R religious worker has already been granted status for the period requested on your application. NOTE: Dependents of R religious workers must apply for extension/change of status to R-2 nonimmigrant status on this form. An employer must file Form I-129 on behalf of the R religious worker. 17. Dependents (TD) of a TN, Canadian or Mexican Professional If you are filing for an extension/change of status as the dependent of an employee who is a TN professional worker, you must submit the following with this application: A. A copy of the front and back of Form I-94 for each person included on this application; B. Evidence of each applicant s relationship to the TN professional worker, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate and proof of termination of any prior marriages; and C. At least one of the following: (1) Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, filed on behalf of the TN professional worker; (2) A copy of the Form I-797 Receipt Notice related to the TN professional worker s already pending Form I-129 petition; (3) A copy of the front and back of the TN professional worker s most recent Form I-94; or (4) A copy of the Form I-797 Approval Notice showing the TN professional worker has already been granted status for the period requested on your application. NOTE: Dependents of TN professional workers must apply for extension/change of status to TD on this form. An employer must file Form I-129 on behalf of a TN professional worker who is currently in the United States. If the principal TN nonimmigrant is not currently in the United States, Mexican citizen professionals must contact a U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate in Mexico and Canadian citizen professionals must contact a designated port-of-entry to apply for TN classification. 18. T Nonimmigrants If you are filing for an extension of status as a T nonimmigrant based on law enforcement need, this application must be submitted with: A. A copy of your Form I-94 or approval notice showing that you have already been granted T status; and B. Evidence demonstrating law enforcement need, such as a new Form I-914 Supplement B, Declaration of Law Enforcement Officer for Victims of Trafficking in Persons, or other evidence from law enforcement explaining that your presence is necessary, and any other credible evidence. Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 8 of 17
9 If you are filing for an extension of status as a T nonimmigrant based on exceptional circumstances, this application must be submitted with: A. A copy of your Form I-94 or approval notice showing that you have already been granted T status; and B. Evidence demonstrating exceptional circumstances, such as an affirmative statement or any other credible evidence. NOTE: Extensions of T nonimmigrant status based on the filing of Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, do not require the filing of Form I-539. T nonimmigrant status is automatically extended when the Form I-485 is filed. 19. T Derivative Nonimmigrants A T derivative nonimmigrant may file for an extension of status independently if the T-1 principal remains in valid T nonimmigrant status, or the T-1 principal nonimmigrant may file for an extension of T-1 status and request that this extension be applied to the derivative family members. If the T-1 principal nonimmigrant wants the extension of status request described above to be applied to derivative family members with T-2, T-3, T-4, T-5, or T-6 nonimmigrant status that are currently in the United States, indicate that request in writing and list each derivative separately on Form I-539A. Each Form I-539A must be submitted with a copy of the derivative s Form I-94 or approval notice showing that the derivative was already granted T-2, T-3, T-4, T-5, or T-6 status. If the T-2, T-3, T-4, T-5, or T-6 nonimmigrant is filing independently for an extension of status, this application must be submitted with: A. Justification for your extension request (statement of need and reasons); B. A copy of your Form I-94, approval notice or your passport with your T nonimmigrant visa showing that you have already been granted T nonimmigrant status; and C. Evidence of relationship to the T-1 nonimmigrant principal, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate and proof of termination of any prior marriages. NOTE: Extensions cannot be granted to derivative family members who are still outside the United States and have never entered the United States in T nonimmigrant status. A statement should be included with the application if there are family members outside the United States who have not consular processed. Therefore, if the T-1 principal s status is extended, an amended approval notice will be issued for derivative family members outside the United States to facilitate the consular processing. 20. U Nonimmigrants If you are filing for an extension of status as a U nonimmigrant based on law enforcement need, this application must be submitted with: A. A copy of your Form I-94 or approval notice showing that you have already been granted U status; and B. Evidence demonstrating law enforcement need, such as a new Form I-918 Supplement B, U Nonimmigrant Status Certification, or other evidence from law enforcement explaining that your presence is necessary, and any other credible evidence. If you are filing for an extension of status as a U nonimmigrant based on exceptional circumstances, this application must be submitted with: A. A copy of your Form I-94 or approval notice showing that you have already been granted U status; and B. Evidence demonstrating exceptional circumstances, such as an affirmative statement or any other credible evidence. NOTE: Extensions of U nonimmigrant status based on the filing of Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, do not require the filing of Form I-539. U nonimmigrant status is automatically extended when the Form I-485 is filed. Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 9 of 17
10 21. U Derivative Nonimmigrants A U derivative nonimmigrant may file for an extension of status independently, or the U-1 principal nonimmigrant may file for an extension of U-1 status and request that this extension be applied to the derivative family members. If the U-1 nonimmigrant principal wants the extension of status request based on law enforcement need or exceptional circumstances described above to be applied to derivative family members with U-2, U-3, U-4, or U-5 nonimmigrant status that are currently in the United States, indicate that request in writing and list each derivative separately on Form I-539A. Each Form I-539A must be submitted with a copy of the derivative s Form I-94 or approval notice showing that the derivative was already granted U-2, U-3, U-4, or U-5 status. If the U-2, U-3, U-4, or U-5 nonimmigrant is filing independently for an extension of status, for example, based on consular delays or to ensure three years of physical presence, this application must be submitted with: A. Justification for your extension request (statement of need and reasons); B. A copy of your Form I-94, approval notice or your passport with your U nonimmigrant visa showing that you have already been granted U nonimmigrant status; and C. Evidence of relationship to the U-1 nonimmigrant principal, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate and proof of termination of any prior marriages. NOTE: Extensions cannot be granted to derivative family members who are still outside the United States and have never entered the United States in U nonimmigrant status. A statement should be included with the application if there are family members outside the United States who have not consular processed. Therefore, if the U-1 principal s status is extended, an amended approval notice will be issued for derivative family members outside the United States to facilitate the consular processing. NOTE: If you never entered the United States in U-2, U-3, U-4, or U-5 derivative status and the principal U-1 nonimmigrant has an approved Form I-485, Applicant to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, you are not eligible for an extension of status. The U-1 principal nonimmigrant may consider filing Form I-929, Petition for Qualifying Family Member of a U-1 Nonimmigrant. 22. V, Spouse or Child of a Lawful Permanent Resident Use Form I-539 if you are physically present in the United States and wish to request initial status or change status to a V nonimmigrant, or to request an extension of your current V nonimmigrant status. Applicants must follow these form Instructions and the form Instructions for Form I-539A that pertains to V Nonimmigrants. The supplement contains additional information and the location where V applicants must file their applications. Notice to V Nonimmigrants The Legal Immigration Family Equity Act (LIFE), signed into law on December 21, 2000, created a new V visa. This nonimmigrant status allows certain persons to reside legally in the United States and to travel to and from the United States while they wait to obtain lawful permanent residence. In order to be eligible for a V visa, all of the following conditions must be met: A. You must be the spouse or the unmarried child of a lawful permanent resident; B. Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, must have been filed for you by your permanent resident spouse on or before December 21, 2000; and C. You must have been waiting for at least three years after Form I-130 was filed for you; or Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 10 of 17
11 D. You must be the unmarried child (under 21 years of age) of a person who meets the three requirements listed above. If you are 21 years of age or older, to qualify for an extension of V status, you must: (1) Have previously been granted V status; (2) Be the unmarried son or daughter of a person who meets the requirements listed above; and (3) Be the beneficiary of a Form I-130 filed on your behalf. V visa holders will be eligible to adjust to lawful permanent resident status once an immigrant visa becomes available to them. While they are waiting, V visa holders may be authorized to work following their submission and USCIS approval of their Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. WARNING: V nonimmigrants who have been in the United States illegally for more than 180 days may trigger the grounds of inadmissibility regarding unlawful presence (for the applicable 3-year or 10-year bar to admission) if they leave the United States. Their departure may prevent them from adjusting status as a permanent resident. Who May Not File Form I-539? You may not be granted an extension or change of status if you were admitted under the Visa Waiver Program or if your current status is: 1. An alien in transit (C) or in transit without a visa (TWOV); 2. A crewman (D); or 3. A fiancé(e) or dependent of a fiancé(e) (K-1 or K-2). A spouse (K-3) of a U.S. citizen and his or her children (K-4), accorded such status pursuant to the LIFE Act, may not change to another nonimmigrant status. EXCEPTION: A K-3 and K-4 are eligible to apply for an extension of status. They should file for an extension during the processing of Form I-130 filed on their behalf and up to completion of their adjustment-of-status application. NOTE: Any nonimmigrant (A to V) may not change his or her status to K-3 or K-4. General Instructions USCIS provides forms free of charge through the USCIS website. In order to view, print, or fill out our forms, you should use the latest version of Adobe Reader, which you can download for free at If you do not have Internet access, you may call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at and ask that we mail a form to you. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: Signature. Each application must be properly signed and filed. Additionally, each Form I-539A must include the signature of the individual applicant. For all signatures on this application, USCIS will not accept a stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature. If you are under 14 years of age, your parent or legal guardian may sign the application on your behalf. A legal guardian may also sign for a mentally incompetent person. Validity of Signatures. USCIS will consider a photocopied, faxed, or scanned copy of the original, handwritten signature valid for filing purposes. The photocopy, fax, or scan must be of the original document containing the handwritten, ink signature. Filing Fee. Each application must be accompanied by the appropriate filing fee and biometric services fee (if applicable). (See the What Is the Filing Fee section of these Instructions.) Evidence. At the time of filing, you must submit all evidence and supporting documents listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit section of these Instructions. Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 11 of 17
12 Biometric Services Appointment. USCIS may require that you appear for an interview or provide biometrics (fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature) at any time to verify your identity, obtain additional information, and conduct background and security checks, including a check of criminal history records maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), before making a decision on your application or petition. After USCIS receives your application and ensures it is complete, we will inform you in writing if you need to attend a biometric services appointment. If an appointment is necessary, the notice will provide you the location of your local or designated USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) and the date and time of your appointment or, if you are currently overseas, instruct you to contact a U.S. Embassy, U.S. Consulate, or USCIS office outside the United States to set up an appointment. If you are required to provide biometrics, at your appointment you must sign an oath reaffirming that: 1. You provided or authorized all information in the application; 2. You reviewed and understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, your application; and 3. All of this information was complete, true, and correct at the time of filing. If you fail to attend your biometric services appointment, USCIS may deny your application. Copies. You should submit legible photocopies of documents requested, unless the Instructions specifically state that you must submit an original document. USCIS may request an original document at the time of filing or at any time during processing of an application or petition. If USCIS requests an original document from you, it will be returned to you after USCIS determines it no longer needs your original. NOTE: If you submit original documents when not required or requested by USCIS, your original documents may be immediately destroyed after we receive them. Translations. If you submit a document with information in a foreign language, you must also submit a full English translation. The translator must sign a certification that the English language translation is complete and accurate, and that he or she is competent to translate from the foreign language into English. The certification must include the translator s signature. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recommends the certification contain the translator s printed name, the signature date, and the translator s contact information. How to Fill Out Form I Type or print legibly in black ink. 2. If you need extra space to complete any item within this application, use the space provided in Part 8. Additional Information or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any) at the top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet. 3. Answer all questions fully and accurately. If a question does not apply to you (for example, if you have never been married and the question asks, Provide the name of your current spouse ), type or print N/A unless otherwise directed. If your answer to a question which requires a numeric response is zero or none (for example, How many children do you have or How many times have you departed the United States ), type or print None unless otherwise directed. 4. USCIS Online Account Number (if any). If you have previously filed an application or petition using the USCIS online filing system (previously called USCIS Electronic Immigration System (USCIS ELIS)), provide the USCIS Online Account Number you were issued by the system. You can find your USCIS Online Account Number by logging in to your account and going to the profile page. If you previously filed certain applications or petitions on a paper form through a USCIS Lockbox facility, you may have received a USCIS Online Account Access Notice issuing you a USCIS Online Account Number. You may find your USCIS Online Account Number at the top of the notice. The USCIS Online Account Number is not the same as an A-Number. If you were issued a USCIS Online Account Number, enter it in the space provided. Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 12 of 17
13 5. Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record. If U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or USCIS issued you a Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record, provide your most recent I-94 number and date that your authorized period of stay expires or expired (as shown on your Form I-94). The Form I-94 number also is known as the Departure Number on some versions of Form I-94. NOTE: If you were admitted to the United States by CBP at an airport or seaport after April 30, 2013, CBP may have issued you an electronic Form I-94 instead of a paper Form I-94. You may visit the CBP website at to obtain a paper version of an electronic Form I-94. CBP does not charge a fee for this service. Some travelers admitted to the United States at a land border, airport, or seaport after April 30, 2013, with a passport or travel document, who were issued a paper Form I-94 by CBP, may also be able to obtain a replacement Form I-94 from the CBP website without charge. If you cannot obtain your Form I-94 from the CBP website, you may obtain it by filing Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Record, with USCIS. USCIS does charge a fee for this service. See the USCIS website at for more information. Passport and Travel Document Numbers. If you used a passport or travel document to travel to the United States, enter either the passport information or information from the travel document from your most recent entry into the United States in Part 1., Item Numbers b. on the application, even if the passport or travel document is currently expired. If you have been issued a new passport while in the United States, provide your current passport information in Part 4., Item Numbers 1.a. - 1.c. 6. Duration of Status. If you are currently in A, G, I, F, or J status and granted Duration of Status (D/S), select the box in Part 1., Item Number 16. of the application. 7. Change of Status. Part 2., Item Number 3.b. of the application, select the date you want your change of status to occur on. If approved, your change of status will occur on the date your current nonimmigrant status ends, the date of approval, or the requested date, whichever occurs later. 8. F or J Nonimmigrant. If you were granted D/S as an F or J nonimmigrant and are seeking reinstatement as an F or J nonimmigrant then you should select the box in Part 1., Item Number 16. of the application to indicate a duration of D/S. NOTE: An F-1 nonimmigrant student who is admitted to attend a public high school is restricted to an aggregate of 12 months of study at any public high schools and is not eligible for D/S. Please indicate a specific date for the duration of your requested status. 9. Part 5. Applicant s Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, Certification, and Signature. Select the appropriate box to indicate whether you read this application yourself or whether you had an interpreter assist you. If someone assisted you in completing the application, select the box indicating that you used a preparer. Further, you must sign and date your application and provide your daytime telephone number, mobile telephone number (if any), and address (if any). Every application MUST contain the signature of the applicant (or parent or legal guardian, if applicable). A stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature is not acceptable. 10. Part 6. Interpreter s Contact Information, Certification, and Signature. If you used anyone as an interpreter to read the Instructions and questions on this application to you in a language in which you are fluent, the interpreter must fill out this section; provide his or her name, the name and address of his or her business or organization (if any), his or her daytime telephone number, his or her mobile telephone number (if any), and his or her address (if any). The interpreter must sign and date the application. 11. Part 7. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Application, if Other Than the Applicant. This section must contain the signature of the person who completed your application, if other than you, the applicant. If the same individual acted as your interpreter and your preparer, that person should complete both Part 6. and Part 7. If the person who completed this application is associated with a business or organization, that person should complete the business or organization name and address information. Anyone who helped you complete this application MUST sign and date the application. A stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature is not acceptable. If the person who helped you prepare your application is an attorney or accredited representative, he or she may also need to submit a completed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, along with your application. Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 13 of 17
14 We recommend that you print or save a copy of your completed application to review in the future and for your records. We recommend that you review your copy of your completed application before you go to your biometric services appointment at a USCIS ASC. At your appointment, USCIS will permit you to complete the application process only if you are able to confirm, under penalty of perjury, that all of the information in your application is complete, true, and correct. If you are not able to make that attestation in good faith at that time, USCIS will require you to return for another appointment. What Evidence Must You Submit? You must submit all evidence requested in these Instructions with your application. If you fail to submit required evidence, USCIS may reject or deny your application for failure to submit requested evidence or supporting documents in accordance with 8 CFR 103.2(b)(1) and these Instructions. Valid Passport. If you were required to have a passport to be admitted into the United States, you must maintain the validity of your passport during your nonimmigrant stay. If a required passport is not valid when you file Form I-539, submit an explanation with your application. What Is the Filing Fee? The filing fee for Form I-539 is $370, except for certain A, G, and NATO nonimmigrants who are not required to pay a fee, as noted in these Instructions. An additional biometrics services fee of $85 is required for you and for each person included on a Form I-539A, except for certain A, G, and NATO nonimmigrants who are not required to pay a fee. After you submit Form I-539, USCIS will notify you about when and where to go for biometrics services. The following nonimmigrants are not required to submit either the filing fee or the biometrics fee: 1. Individuals changing into or out of A-1, A-2, A-3 status; 2. Individuals changing into or out of G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, G-5 status; and 3. Individuals changing into or out of NATO-1, NATO-2, NATO-3, NATO-4, NATO-5, NATO-6 status. NOTE: The filing fee and biometric services fee are not refundable, regardless of any action USCIS takes on this application. DO NOT MAIL CASH. You must submit all fees in the exact amounts. NOTE: A fee waiver request will be accepted in accordance to 8 CFR 103.7(c)(3)(xviii) for T and U nonimmigrants. Payments by Checks or Money Orders Use the following guidelines when you prepare your checks or money orders for the Form I-539 filing fee and biometric services fee: 4. The checks or money orders must be drawn on a bank or other financial institution located in the United States and must be payable in U.S. currency; and 5. Make the checks or money orders payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security. NOTE: Spell out U.S. Department of Homeland Security; do not use the initials USDHS or DHS. Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 14 of 17
15 Notice to Those Paying by Check. If you send USCIS a check, we will convert it into an electronic funds transfer (EFT). This means we will copy your check and use the account information on it to electronically debit your account for the amount of the check. The debit from your account will usually take 24 hours and your bank will show it on your regular account statement. You will not receive your original check back. We will destroy your original check, but will keep a copy of it. If USCIS cannot process the EFT for technical reasons, you authorize us to process the copy in place of your original check. If your check is returned as unpayable, we will re-submit the payment to the financial institution one time. If the check is returned as unpayable a second time, we will reject your application and charge you a returned check fee. Payments by Credit Card If you are filing your application at a USCIS Lockbox facility, you can pay your filing fee and biometric services fee using a credit card. Please see Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, at for more information. How To Check If the Fees Are Correct Form I-539 s filing fee and biometric services fee are current as of the edition date in the lower left corner of this page. However, because USCIS fees change periodically, you can verify that the fees are correct by following one of the steps below. 1. Visit the USCIS website at select FORMS, and check the appropriate fee; or 2. Call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at and ask for the for fee information. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: Where To File? Please see our website at or call our National Customer Service Center at for the most current information about where to file this application. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: Special Information for Applicants Residing in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) If the applicant is lawfully present in the CNMI, the applicant may be eligible to apply for a grant of status with this application without having to seek consular processing. The request for the initial grant of status must be accompanied by an additional biometric services fee as described in section 8 CFR 103.7(b)(1) and evidence of the applicant s lawful presence. The applicant will be required to submit biometric information before the application for a grant of status is approved. Although this is a request for an initial grant of status rather than a change of nonimmigrant status, in Part 2., the applicant should select Item Number 3.a., and identify the nonimmigrant status he or she is initially requesting in Item Number 3.c. Address Change An applicant who is not a U.S. citizen must notify USCIS of his or her new address within 10 days of moving from his or her previous residence. For information on filing a change of address, go to the USCIS website at or contact the USCIS National Customer Service Center at For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: Form I-539 Instructions 02/04/19 Page 15 of 17