Extension of Status

Certain nonimmigrants present in the U.S. admitted for a specified period of time may request an extension of their admission period in order to continue to engage in those activities permitted under the nonimmigrant classification in which they were admitted.

Eligibility:

To qualify for an Extension of Stay in the U.S. you must have been lawfully admitted in the U.S. as a nonimmigrant, have not committed any act that makes you ineligible to receive an immigration benefit, there is no other factor that requires you to depart the U.S. prior to extending status, and you must submit an application for an extension of stay by mail before the expiration date on your I-94, Arrival-Departure Record. Your passport must be valid for the entire requested period of stay in the U.S.

Ineligibility:

​Certain nonimmigrant categories cannot obtain an Extension of Stay in the U.S.; therefore, you must depart on or before your I-94 expires. These categories include: C, D, K-1 or K-2, S, TWOV, and WT or WB.

Application Process:

​The application process for an Extension of Stay depends on your nonimmigrant status. If you are in an employment-based category, your employer should file a Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, before your I-94 expires. Each category has specific requirements and limits, including limits on length of stay in this country. If you are in a non-employment-based category, you should file a Form I-539 to extend your stay.

Public Benefits Condition:

To ensure that nonimmigrants remain self-sufficient while present in the U.S., applicants seeking an Extension of Stay are subject to the public benefits condition, unless the status youseek to extend is statutorily exempt from the public charge ground of inadmissibility. The public benefits condition requires an applicant seeking an Extension of Stay on or after February 24, 2020 to demonstrate that you have not received, since obtaining the nonimmigrant status you are seeking to extend, one or more public benefit, for more than 12 months in the aggregate within any 26-month period.

The public benefit condition does not apply if the nonimmigrant classification you seek to extend is exempt from the public charge inadmissibility ground by law or regulation, the public charge ground of inadmissibility has been waived for purposes of the nonimmigrant status that you seek to extend, or you filed the request before February 24

Give our office a call if you would like to extend your status here in the U.S. or if you have any questions.

Extensión de Estatus:

Ciertos no inmigrantes presentes en los Estados Unidos admitidos por un periodo de tiempo especifico pueden solicitar una extensión de su periodo de admisión para continuar participando en aquellas actividades permitidas bajo la clasificación de no inmigrantes en las que fueron admitidos.

Elegibilidad:

Para calificar para una Extensión de Estatus en de los Estados Unidos, debe haber sido admitido legalmente en los Estados Unidos como no inmigrante, no haber cometido ningún acto que le haga inelegible para recibir un beneficio de inmigración, no hay otro factor que requiera que salga de los Estados Unidos antes de extender su estatus y debe enviar una solicitud de extensión de estatus por correo antes de la fecha de vencimiento en su I-94, Registro de Entrada/Salida. Su pasaporte deber estar valido durante todo el periodo de estadía solicitado en los Estados Unidos.

Inelegibilidad:

​Ciertas categorías de no inmigrantes no pueden obtener una extensión de estatus en los Estados Unidos; por lo tanto, deben partir antes de que expire su I-94. Estas categorías incluyen: C, D, K-1 o K-2, TWOV y WT O WB.

Proceso de Solicitud:

​El proceso de solicitud de Extensión de Estatus depende de su estatus de no inmigrante. Si se encuentra en una categoría basada en el empleo, su empleador debe presentar el Formulario 1-129, Petición para Trabajador No Inmigrante, antes que se expire su I-94. Cada categoría tiene requisitos y limites específicos, incluyendo limites de duración de la estadía en este país. Si se encuentra en una categoría no basada en el empleo, debe presentar el Formulario I-539 para extender su estatus.

Condición de Beneficios Públicos:

​Para garantizar que no inmigrantes sigan siendo autosuficientes mientras estén presentes en los Estados Unidos los solicitantes que busquen una Extensión de Estatus están sujetos a la condición de beneficios públicos, al menos de que el estatus que busca extender este legalmente exento de la carga publica de inadmisibilidad. La condición de beneficios públicos requiere que un solicitante buscando una Extensión de Estatus el 24 de febrero del 2020 o mas tarde demuestre que no ha recibido uno o mas beneficios públicos desde que obtuvo el estatus de no inmigrante que busca extender por mas de 12 meses en el agregado dentro de cualquier periodo de 26 meses.

​La condición de beneficio publico no se aplica si la clasificación de no inmigrante que busca extender esta exenta de la inadmisibilidad de la carga publica por ley o reglamento, la razón de inadmisibilidad se ha renunciado con respecto al estatus no inmigrante que busca extender o presento la solicitud antes del 24 de febrero.

Llame a nuestra oficina si desea extender su estatus aquí en los Estados Unidos o si tiene alguna pregunta.

A Comprehensive Guide To Understanding Visa Extensions

Navigating the immigration system in the United States can be a daunting task, one that will require the legal guidance of an experienced Los Angeles extension of stay attorney. One common challenge that individuals face is the need to extend their visas to legally stay in the country for a longer period. In this comprehensive guide, we will shed light on the intricacies of visa extensions, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of the process and your rights.

Understanding Visa Extensions: What Are They?

Visa extensions allow individuals who are already in the United States on a non-immigrant visa to prolong their stay for a legitimate purpose. This purpose could range from completing a course of study, continuing employment, seeking medical treatment, or any other valid reason that complies with U.S. immigration regulations.

Types Of Visa Extensions

Visa extensions are not one-size-fits-all; they come in various forms, each designed to cater to specific circumstances. Common categories include:

Student Visa Extensions: International students studying in the U.S. may need to extend their F-1 or M-1 visas to complete their educational programs.

Work Visa Extensions: Professionals with H-1B, L-1, or other employment-based visas may apply for extensions to continue their employment.

Tourist Visa Extensions: B-1 and B-2 visa holders can request extensions for legitimate reasons, such as medical treatment or unexpected delays.

Family Visa Extensions: Individuals holding visas as spouses, fiancés, or children of U.S. citizens or permanent residents may seek extensions to maintain their family unity.

Exchange Visitor Visa Extensions: J-1 visa holders participating in exchange programs may extend their stay to complete their objectives.

Eligibility Criteria

You must meet specific criteria to be eligible for a visa extension. The specific requirements vary based on your visa category, but some common elements include:

• You must have a valid reason for the extension.
• You must apply for an extension before your current visa expires.
• You must not have violated the terms of your current visa.
• You must be able to financially support yourself during the extended stay.

The Application Process

The process of applying for a visa extension can be intricate, involving meticulous documentation and adherence to timelines. It’s crucial to submit your application well in advance of your visa’s expiration date to avoid any legal issues. Depending on your visa category, you may need to complete Form I-539 or other specific forms.

Overcoming Challenges

While visa extensions are possible, they are not guaranteed. The application’s success can be affected by various factors such as changes in immigration policies or personal circumstances. Working with a qualified immigration attorney is essential to navigate these challenges effectively.

How We Can Help

If you find yourself in need of a visa extension, it’s essential to consult with an experienced Los Angeles extension of stay attorney. Our team is well-versed in immigration law and can guide you through the process, ensuring that your application is strong and compliant with all regulations.

Our experience in immigration matters, combined with our commitment to client success, makes us the right choice for your visa extension needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a personalized consultation. Let us assist you in securing your legal status and allowing you to continue your journey in the United States.

Secure Your Visa Extension Today

In the United States, maintaining your legal status goes hand in hand with understanding visa extensions. With the right knowledge and legal assistance, you can navigate this process successfully. If you need assistance with your visa extension, contact Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, your trusted Los Angeles extension of stay attorney. We are here to help you secure your visa extension and continue your journey in the United States with confidence. Contact us today to get started.