Switch to a different visa category while staying in the United States. Learn how to change your nonimmigrant status without leaving the country.
A Change of Status (COS) allows you to switch from one nonimmigrant visa category to another while remaining in the United States. This is ideal when your circumstances change and you need a different type of visa to continue your stay legally.
For example, if you entered the U.S. on a B-2 tourist visa and received a job offer, you could apply to change your status to H-1B. Or if you're on an F-1 student visa and get married to a U.S. citizen, you might change to a spousal visa category.
If you just need more time in your current visa category, learn about Extension of Stay (EOS). Or if you're eligible for permanent residency, explore Adjustment of Status to apply for your green card.
From
B-1/B-2 (Tourist/Business)
To
F-1 (Student)
Decided to pursue education in the U.S.
From
F-1 (Student)
To
H-1B (Work)
Graduated and received a job offer from a U.S. employer.
From
B-2 (Tourist)
To
H-1B (Work)
Received a job offer while visiting the U.S.
From
J-1 (Exchange Visitor)
To
H-1B (Work)
Completed exchange program and transitioning to employment.
From
L-1 (Intracompany Transfer)
To
H-1B (Work)
Changing employers or job roles.
Varies by visa type, typically 6-12 months. Some categories offer premium processing for faster decisions.
Form I-539 fee is $470, plus additional fees depending on the visa category you're changing to.
Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status) plus category-specific forms.
You were lawfully admitted to the U.S. in a nonimmigrant status.
Your current nonimmigrant status is still valid and you haven't violated any terms.
The visa category you're changing to allows for change of status (some categories require consular processing).
File before your current I-94 expires. USCIS recommends filing at least 45 days in advance.
You must meet all eligibility requirements for the visa category you're changing to.
Verify that you meet requirements for both maintaining current status and qualifying for the new visa category.
Collect Form I-539, passport, I-94, financial documents, and category-specific supporting evidence.
Fill out Form I-539 and any additional forms required for your target visa category.
Submit all required fees including I-539 filing fee and any category-specific fees.
Mail your complete application package to the appropriate USCIS service center.
Complete any required biometrics appointments or interviews as requested by USCIS.
USCIS will mail you a decision. If approved, you can begin activities under your new status.
Even if changing to a work visa, you cannot begin employment until USCIS approves your change of status application.
Leaving the U.S. while your application is pending will abandon your change of status request. You would need to apply for a visa abroad.
Certain visa categories (like K-1 fiancé visa) cannot be obtained through change of status and require you to apply at a U.S. consulate abroad.
Approval only changes your status in the U.S. If you travel abroad, you'll need to obtain a visa stamp in your new category at a U.S. consulate.
Get expert guidance through your Change of Status application process.
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