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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 04/30/2018 What is the Purpose of This Form? You should use this form 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 form to apply for an initial nonimmigrant status. You may also use this form 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. 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 form, 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. 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. Public Benefits Each beneficiary must provide information about filing applications for or requesting public benefits, except where the nonimmigrant classification that the alien seeks to extend, or to which the alien seeks to change, is exempted by law from the public charge inadmissibility determination under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) section 212(a)(4), (that is, A1, A2, G1, G2, G3, G4, NATO1, NATO2, NATO3, NATO4, NATO5, NATO6, NATO7, T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, U1, U2, U3, U4, U5). Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 1 of 20
2 In the table provided, please provide all requested information about each public benefit received, regardless of whether the amount or the duration would be excluded as described below, as USCIS will calculate the amount to be considered in determining your eligibility for extension of stay or change of status. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 9. Additional Information. In the table, indicate whether or not you have ever applied for or received, any of the following monetizable cash benefits: 1. Any Federal, state, local, or tribal cash assistance for income maintenance including: A. Supplemental Security Income (SSI); B. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF); or C. Federal, state, or local cash benefit programs for income maintenance (often called General Assistance in the state context, but which may exist under other names); 2. The following monetizable non-cash benefits: A. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly called Food Stamps ); B. Section 8 Housing Assistance under the Housing Choice Voucher Program; or C. Section 8 Project-Based Rental Assistance (including Moderate Rehabilitation); and 3. Any of the following non-monetizable benefits: A. Medicaid; B. Any benefit for institutionalization for long-term care at Government expense, for example, Intermediate Care Facilities for People with Intellectual disability (ICF/ID), Nursing Facility (NF), Preadmission Screening & Resident Review (PASRR), Inpatient Psychiatric Services for Individuals Under Age 21, and Services for individuals 65 years of age or older in an institution for mental diseases; C. Premium and Cost Sharing Subsidies for Medicare Part D; or D. Subsidized Housing. Amount and Duration of Benefit As part of the determination as to your eligibility for an extension of stay or change of status, USCIS will consider the above-listed public benefits as listed below. 1. Monetizable (cash or non-cash) benefits: USCIS will consider the benefits when the total receipt of all benefits cumulatively exceeds 15 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) for a household of one within any period of 12 consecutive months (since you obtained the nonimmigrant status that you seek to extend or from which you seek to change), based on the per-month average FPG for the months during which the benefits are received. Note only the amount received by or attributable to the alien will be considered (for example, if the TANF is for a household of 4, only 25 percent of the total TANF benefit will be considered). 2. Non-monetizable benefits (non-cash): USCIS will generally consider the benefits when the benefit (or benefits) is received for longer than 12 months within an aggregate of 36 months since you obtained the nonimmigrant status that you seek to extend or from which you seek to change (such that, for instance, receipt of 2 non-monetizable benefits in 1 month counts as 2 months). Note only the amount received by or attributable to the alien will be considered (for example, if the SNAP or housing benefit is for a household of 4, only 25 percent of the total SNAP or housing benefit will be considered). Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 2 of 20
3 3. Combined Monetizable and Non-monetizable Public Benefits. USCIS will generally consider the receipt of a combination of monetizable benefits, described above, where the cumulative value of such benefits is equal to or less than 15 percent of the FPG for a household size of one within any period of 12 consecutive months based on the per-month average FPG for the months during which the benefits are received (since you obtained the nonimmigrant status that you seek to extend or from which you seek to change), together with one or more non-monetizable benefits described above of this section if such non-monetizable benefits are received for more than 9 months in the aggregate within a 36 month period since you obtained the nonimmigrant status that you seek to extend or from which you seek to change (such that, for instance, receipt of two non-monetizable benefits in one month counts as two months). The following table provides a summary of how USCIS will consider the monetizable and a non-monetizable public benefits. Summary of Consideration Monetizable and Non-monetizable Public Benefits Monetizable Benefits: Cumulative value of benefits for a household of one within any period of 12 consecutive months, based on the permonth average FPG for the months during which the benefits are received More than 15% of the FPG Equal to or less than 15% of the FPG Any benefits in any percentage of the FPG Non-monetizable Benefits: Number of Benefits and Duration (Months) within a 36-month period (such that, for instance, receipt of two non-monetizable benefits in one month counts as two months) Any benefits for any time period 1 or more benefits for longer than 9 aggregate months 1 or more benefit for longer than 12 aggregate months Public Benefits Received by U.S. Armed Forces Service Members When considering receipt of public benefits in the public charge determination, USCIS will not consider any public benefits if the beneficiary, either at the time of receipt of the benefits, the time of filing the immigration benefits application, or the time of USCIS adjudication of the benefit application is: 1. An alien serving in active duty or in the Ready Reserve component of the U.S. armed forces; or 2. The spouse or child of the service member (listed in Item Number 1., above). You must provide the following documentation: 1. Service Members: A. Certified proof, issued by the authorizing official of the executive department in which you are serving. 2. Spouses and Children of Service Members: A. Provide copies of marriage certificate for spouse and birth certificates for children; and B. DD-1173, United States Uniformed Services Identification and Privilege Card (Dependent). Medicaid Services Not Considered In addition, in the public charge inadmissibility determination, USCIS will not consider any of the Medicaid benefits received by: 1. Children of U.S. citizens whose lawful admission for permanent residence and subsequent residence in the legal and physical custody of their U.S. citizen parent will result automatically in the child s acquisition of citizenship or whose lawful admission for permanent residence will result automatically in the child s acquisition of citizenship upon finalization of adoption in the United States by the U.S. citizen parents, or once meeting other eligibility criteria as required under INA section 320. Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 3 of 20
4 For information on eligibility for citizenship under INA section 320 and the evidentiary requirements to meet the qualifications to demonstrate citizenship, please see Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship. If you have not previously submitted any required evidence to comply with filing requirements of other benefit requests (such as I-130, Petition for Alien Relative; I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative; or I-800, Petition to Classify Convention Adoptee as an Immediate Relative), please submit them at this time with this form. If you are currently residing abroad and entered the United States with a nonimmigrant visa in order to attend an interview in regards to N-600K, Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate Under INA Section 322, please provide a copy of the interview notice. Further, USCIS will not consider Medicaid provided payment for emergency medical condition, for services provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), or for school-based non-emergency benefits provided to children who are at or below the oldest age of children eligible for secondary education as determined under state law. Please provide documentation of such payments under those conditions, and, if applicable, provide a statement and information regarding the emergency medical condition determination. USCIS will not consider these specific Medicaid provisions in the public charge determination. If you applied for or received Medicaid under these conditions, please indicate and explain so in Part 9. Additional Information. Documentation of Public Benefit Receipt If the beneficiary applied for, is currently receiving, or previously received, any of the public benefits listed above, provide evidence in the form of a letter, notice, certification, or other agency documents that contain the following: 1. Your name; 2. Name and contact information for the public benefit granting agency; 3. Type of benefit; 4. Amount of benefits received (provide if benefits received weekly, monthly, annually, or provide an explanation if other); 5. Date benefit was granted; 6. Date benefit ended or expires (mm/dd/yyy) (if applicable); and 7. Number of household members receiving the benefit (if applicable). If the beneficiary has terminated the receipt of benefits, provide the documentation that indicates the beneficiary will no longer receive the benefits with the applicable termination date. If you have terminated the receipt of benefits, provide the documentation that indicates you will no longer receive the benefits with the applicable termination date. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 9. Additional Information. Part 5., Item Numbers 5.a. and 5.b. Future Applications for or Receipt of Public Benefits. Indicate whether or not you or any derivative anticipate applying for or receiving public benefits at any time in the future, including whether you or any derivative have been certified or approved to receive future benefits or have been determined to be eligible for future benefits. If you or your derivatives anticipate requesting or receiving such benefits, please explain what public benefits you or your derivatives expect to apply for or receive, for how long you expect to receive the benefits, the anticipated amounts of the public benefits you expect to receive, and why you or your derivatives would receive the benefits in the space provided. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 9. Additional Information. Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 4 of 20
5 Nonimmigrant Categories This form may be used by the following nonimmigrants listed in alphabetical order. 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, Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record, 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 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 2.a. 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 12/23/16 N Page 5 of 20
6 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 form. 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. 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 apply on this form 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 your Form I-94, as well as 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 12/23/16 N Page 6 of 20
7 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 5 months at the time of filing your request for reinstatement, you must also provide evidence that your failure to file within the 5 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 form 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. Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 7 of 20
8 NOTE: Dependents of H temporary workers must apply for extension/change of status to H-4 on this form. An employer must file Form I-129 on behalf of the H temporary worker. 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 form to request a change of employer or a change in the information medium in which you work. To do this, select Item Number 1. in Part 2. 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 2.a. 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. Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 8 of 20
9 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. 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. Evidence of each applicant s relationship to the L intracompany transferee, 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 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. Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 9 of 20
10 If you have been out of status for more than 5 months at the time of filing your request for reinstatement you, must also provide evidence that your failure to file within the 5 month period was the result of exceptional circumstances and that you filed your request for reinstatement as promptly as possible under these exceptional circumstances. 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 6 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 3 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; Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 10 of 20
11 (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. 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. Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 11 of 20
12 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. 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 Supplement A of the Form I-539. Each Supplement A of the Form I-539 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. Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 12 of 20
13 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. 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 Supplement A of the Form I-539. Each Supplement A of the Form I-539 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-5status. 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 3 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 Supplement A to Form I-539 (Filing Instructions for V Nonimmigrants). The supplement contains additional information and the location where V applicants must file their applications. NOTE: In addition to the $370 application fee required to file Form I-539, V applicants are required to pay an $85 biometrics services fee for USCIS to take their fingerprints. If necessary, USCIS may also take the V applicant s photograph and signature as part of the biometrics services. Notice to V Nonimmigrants Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 13 of 20
14 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 3 years after Form I-130 was filed for you; or 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 can be downloaded for free at Each application must be accompanied by the appropriate filing fee. (See the What Is the Filing Fee section of these instructions.) Each application must be properly signed and filed. A photocopy of a signed application or a typewritten name in place of a signature is not acceptable. If you are under 14 years of age, your parent or legal guardian may sign the application on your behalf. Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 14 of 20
15 Evidence. You must submit all required initial evidence and supporting documentation with your application at the time of filing. If you are electronically filing this application, you must follow the instructions provided on the USCIS website, You may be required to submit additional evidence as noted in these instructions. You may be required to submit additional evidence as noted in these instructions. Biometrics Services Appointment. After USCIS receives your application and ensures it is complete, the agency will inform you in writing when to go to your local USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) for your biometrics services appointment. Failure to attend the biometrics services appointment may result in denial of your application. Copies. You may submit a legible photocopy of documents requested, unless the instructions specifically state that you must submit an original document. Original documents submitted when not required may remain a part of the record, and will not be automatically returned to you. Translations. Any document you submit to USCIS with information in a foreign language must be accompanied by a full English translation. The translator must certify that the English language translation is complete and accurate, and that he or she is competent to translate from the foreign language into English. Online Submission. When authorized by USCIS, you may submit this form online. Please check the USCIS website for the latest information on whether electronic submission of this form is possible. 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, attach a sheet of paper, and type or print your name and A-Number (if any) at the top of each sheet of paper; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and date and sign each sheet. 3. Answer all questions fully and accurately. If an item is not applicable or the answer is none, type or print N/A, unless otherwise directed. 4. USCIS Online Account Number (if any). If you have previously filed an application, petition, or request 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, petitions, or requests on a paper form via a USCIS Lockbox facility, you may have received a USCIS Online Account Access Notice issuing you a USCIS Online Account Number. If you received such a notice, your USCIS Online Account Number can be found at the top of the notice. If you were issued a USCIS Online Account Number, enter it in the space provided. The USCIS Online Account Number is not the same as an A-Number. 5. If you are currently in F or J status and granted Duration of Status (D/S), check the box in Part 1., Item Number 12.c. of the form. 6. Part 2., Item Number 2.a. of the form, 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. 7. If you were granted D/S as an F or J nonimmigrant and are seeking reinstatement or are requesting a change of status to an F or J nonimmigrant then you should check the box in Part 3., Item Number 1.b. of the form 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 school(s) and is not eligible for D/S. Please indicate a specific date for the duration of your requested status. Form I-539 Instructions 12/23/16 N Page 15 of 20