This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to complete Form I-539.
What is Form I-539?
Form I-539, officially titled "Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status," is used by foreign nationals to request a change or extension of their current nonimmigrant status while remaining in the U.S. Applicants must complete this form and submit it along with other documents to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Most nonimmigrant visas, such as F-1 (student visa), H-1B (work visa), and B-1/B-2 (tourist visa), allow status changes through this form. However, individuals on certain visa types, such as C (transit), D (crew members), or S (witnesses/informant), are not eligible to use Form I-539 for a change of status.
How to Fill out Form I-539?
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Note 1: Your "status expiration date" is not the same as your "visa expiration date." To find your status expiration date, check the entry stamp in your passport or your I-94 record.
Note 2: If you are changing your status along with a family member's status change, select "Yes." For example, if your spouse is changing to F-1 or H-1B status and you are applying to change to F-2 or H-4 status accordingly, this applies to you. However, if you are applying to change to B-1/B-2 status or extend your B-1/B-2 status, this does not qualify.
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Note 3: If you hold a visa that does not allow you to work in the U.S., such as a B-1/B-2 visa, selecting "Yes" would be considered a violation of the rules and could result in your application being denied.
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