Stay longer in the U.S. on your current visa status. Learn everything you need to know about extending your nonimmigrant status.
An Extension of Stay (EOS) allows you to remain in the United States beyond the expiration date on your Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) while maintaining your current nonimmigrant status. This is ideal if you need more time to complete your purpose of visit but don't need to change your visa category.
For example, if you're in the U.S. on a B-2 tourist visa and want to stay longer to visit family, or you're on an F-1 student visa and need additional time to complete your studies, you would file for an Extension of Stay.
If you need to switch to a different visa category instead of extending your current one, explore Change of Status options. Or if you're ready to apply for permanent residency, learn about Adjustment of Status to get your green card.
Typically 6-12 months, depending on USCIS workload. Premium processing available for some visa types.
Form I-539 filing fee is $470. Biometrics fee of $85 may apply. Check USCIS for current fees.
Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status) with supporting documents.
You must currently be in valid nonimmigrant status and have not violated the terms of your admission.
File before your I-94 expires. USCIS recommends filing at least 45 days before expiration.
You have not accrued unlawful presence in the United States.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your requested extension period.
You must demonstrate that you intend to depart the U.S. when your extended stay expires.
Gather Form I-539, passport, I-94, financial documents, and supporting evidence for your extension request.
Fill out the application accurately with all required information about your current status and extension request.
Submit the required filing fee ($470) and biometrics fee ($85 if applicable) via check, money order, or credit card.
Mail your complete application package to the appropriate USCIS lockbox facility based on your location.
If requested, attend your biometrics appointment at a USCIS Application Support Center.
USCIS will review your application and mail you a decision. You can check status online using your receipt number.
If you file before your I-94 expires, you can legally remain in the U.S. for up to 240 days while USCIS processes your application, even if your I-94 expires during that time.
If you leave the U.S. while your extension is pending, USCIS will consider your application abandoned. Plan accordingly.
An extension of stay only extends your status in the U.S., not your visa. If you travel abroad, you'll need a valid visa to return.
Get expert guidance through your Extension of Stay application process.
Explore other U.S. status options: