Extensions (I-539)

Extend or Change Your Non-Immigrant Status Safely and On Time

If you are in the United States on a temporary visa—such as a visitor, student, or dependent—and need more time to stay legally, you may file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. Filing correctly and on time is essential to maintaining your legal status and avoiding future immigration problems.

Nakimax Immigration Services helps you prepare a complete and accurate I-539 application so you can remain compliant and avoid unnecessary risks.


What Is Form I-539?

Form I-539 is used to request:

✔ Extension of Stay

Additional time in the U.S. under your current non-immigrant visa.

✔ Change of Status

Switching from one non-immigrant category to another (example: B-2 visitor to F-1 student).

✔ Dependent Status Changes

For spouses and children of principal visa holders (H-4, L-2, E-2 dependent, etc.).

This form is often used by visitors, students, exchange visitors, and visa dependents.


Who Should File Form I-539?

You may be eligible to file if you are currently in the U.S. and hold one of the following statuses:

  • B-1/B-2 Visitor

  • F-1/F-2 Student or Dependent

  • M-1/M-2 Student or Dependent

  • H-4 (H-1B dependent)

  • L-2 (L-1 dependent)

  • E-1/E-2/E-3 dependents

  • O-3 dependents

  • TN/TD dependents

  • J-1/J-2 (in certain circumstances)

  • Other eligible non-immigrant categories

If you are not sure whether you qualify, Nakimax helps you determine the right category before filing.


Why File an Extension or Change of Status?

Filing Form I-539 allows you to:

  • Stay in the U.S. legally beyond your current authorized expiration date

  • Avoid unlawful presence

  • Continue school, travel, medical treatment, or dependent status

  • Transition to another visa category without leaving the country

  • Maintain your immigration record clean for future benefits

A late or incorrectly filed I-539 may lead to denial and future immigration complications.


When Should You File?

USCIS recommends filing at least 45 days before your current status expires.

Filing late may lead to denial unless you meet the strict requirements for an exception.

Nakimax ensures your timing and documentation are correct.


What You Need to File Form I-539

A complete I-539 application generally includes:

✔ Required Forms

  • Form I-539 (primary form)

  • Form I-539A (for dependents, if needed)

✔ Identification Documents

  • Passport biographical page

  • Current U.S. visa

  • Most recent I-94 record

  • Previous approval notices (if any)

✔ Evidence of Financial Support

  • Bank statements

  • Sponsor letters

  • Pay stubs or tax returns (if dependent)

✔ Evidence Supporting the Request

Depending on your category:

  • School acceptance letter (for F-1 requests)

  • Proof of ongoing medical care

  • Updated visa documents from principal applicant (H-4, L-2, etc.)

  • Valid explanation for extension of stay

  • Travel itinerary or plans (if applicable)

Nakimax organizes these documents clearly for USCIS review.


How Nakimax Helps You

We prepare your I-539 package with precision and care:

✔ Eligibility Review

We determine whether you qualify for an extension or change of status.

✔ Form I-539 Preparation

Clean, accurate, and error-free form completion.

✔ Evidence Organization

We prepare a strong packet to demonstrate eligibility and intent.

✔ Detailed Cover Letter

A professionally crafted summary explaining your request to USCIS.

✔ Dependent Filings (I-539A)

We handle all dependent applications together to avoid inconsistencies.

✔ Timely Submission Guidance

We help you file before your status expires to maintain lawful presence.

✔ RFE Support

If USCIS requests further evidence, we help you respond effectively.


Processing Times

USCIS processing times vary depending on category, but commonly fall between:

  • 3–10 months for visitors (B-1/B-2)

  • 4–12 months for students (F-1/M-1 changes)

  • 6–14 months for dependents (H-4, L-2, etc.)

Processing times may be longer depending on workload and visa category.

We track your case and keep you informed of updates.


Common Mistakes We Help You Avoid

  • Filing after your status has expired

  • Incorrect I-94 or passport information

  • Submitting outdated forms

  • Missing required supplemental forms (I-539A)

  • Weak financial evidence

  • Not providing sufficient explanation

  • Errors that lead to Requests for Evidence (RFEs)

A complete, accurate application reduces the risk of delays or denial.


Start Your Extension or Change of Status Today

Maintain your lawful status and avoid immigration problems. Nakimax Immigration Services will prepare your Form I-539 thoroughly and correctly.

Nakimax Immigration Services
📍 Bronx, New York
📞 [Insert phone]
📧 [Insert email]

Stay legal. Stay safe. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Scroll to Top