How to Extend Student Visas in the U.S.A.
As a foreign student studying in the United States, you may live in the country as long as your visa is current. But, if your studies take longer than your visa allows, you don’t have to abandon school and return home. By following a few steps, you can submit an application to extend your student visa.
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Instructions
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Verify that your visa is still active. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) recommends you begin the process of filing for an extension at least 45 days before your visa is about to expire, but you can apply up to six months in advance. You can determine the expiration date by looking in the lower, right corner of the I-94 form you completed when originally filed for a visa. If your visa has expired, you are not able to file an extension unless you can prove that you had extenuating circumstances preventing you from doing so.
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Check that you qualify for an extension. Your visa must be a “nonimmigrant” visa and you must have a valid passport. You must not have violated the conditions of your admission nor committed any crimes that would make you ineligible for a visa.
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Obtain the I-539 form from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
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Complete the I-539 form fully on a computer or in writing by printing the form and using black ink. Write “N/A” or “None” in any fields that don’t apply or where the answer is “None.” If you need extra space, add a continuation sheet, indicating the item that you are continuing on the page.
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Compile the necessary documentation. In addition to the I-539 form, you must include the original I-20 form you were issued by your school or institution. You must also include the original I-94 form you filled out when obtaining your visa.
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Submit your application. There are three ways that you can file. The first is by mailing your application. Second, you can drop your application off at a local lockbox. Third, you can file your application electronically. You can determine where your local lockbox is or where to mail application by reviewing the instructions on the most current I-539 form. For electronic filing instructions, visit the USCIS I-539 form page. Along with the appropriate documents, you must include payment for the application fee. The current fee can be found on the I-539 webpage.
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