
How long does it take to get a visa extension receipt?
Once you file the visa extension application, USCIS will send you a receipt with a receipt number( 13 digit) This is your case number. The approximate processing time will be indicated on the receipt. It can take few weeks to several weeks to process your case.
What is a US visitor visa extension?
US Visitor Visa Extension - When & How to Apply USA Visitor Visa is a non-immigrant US visa issued to people entering America temporarily for business (B-1), or for pleasure/medical treatment (B-2). These are generally issued for a period of six months, but an additional maximum extension of 6 months can be granted based on the USCIS approval.
How much does it cost to extend a US visa?
Documents required for the US visa extension: Completed I-539 Form (PDF) Or File Online (I-539 Online) An application stating the reason for the requested extension. Proof of financial support during this extended stay. Copy of your return tickets as a proof of your temporary stay intentions. Visitor visa (B1-B2) extension fee is $370.
What happens after you file a visa extension application?
Once you file the visa extension application, USCIS will send you a receipt with a receipt number ( 13 digit) This is your case number. The approximate processing time will be indicated on the receipt. You will also be given a biometrics appointment at your closest ASC in order to fingerprinted.

How long you can stay after applying for visa extension?
The maximum amount of time you can extend on a B-1 visa is up to 6 months, for a total of 1 year. It is a common misconception that you are only allowed to file for an extension of stay if you are a B1, business visa holder or a B2, tourism visa holder.
What is the process of visa extension?
A fully filled visa extension form. Recent passport size photographs. A copy of passport/VISA/registration certificate. Copy of valid and notarized Lease/Rent agreement OR Copy of C-Form from the Hotel OR copy of recent electricity/telephone bill along with the letter from the landlord, towards proof of residence.
How much is the extension of visa?
$370Include payment – The visa extension filing fee is $370 (for you and your family included in the application) but there may be an extra $85 biometric fee involved depending on your current type of visa. Copy of Form I-94 – Your arrival and departures form attained at the entry to the U.S.
Can I travel after applying for visa extension?
You must not travel outside of the U.S. while the petition is pending. Leaving the country while USCIS is reviewing your petition will cause USCIS to consider your petition for a change of status to be abandoned.
Can I renew my U.S. visa without interview?
The US Interview Waiver Program (IWP) allows eligible individuals to renew their visas without attending another interview. If you do not meet the requirements, you will have to schedule a second one.
What happens if visa expires?
To put it simply, over staying in India beyond the visa date can lead to fine, an imprisonment of up to 5 years and even banishment from entering the country again. $500 penalty if overstay is for more than a period of 2 years. $400 penalty is overstay is between 91 days to 2 years.
What happens if my visa extension is denied?
If the response is a denial, and your I-94 has expired, the USCIS generally allows you 30 days to depart the U.S. starting from the date on the letter notifying you of their decision to deny your extension. If you do not depart within 30 days, you will be considered deportable.
How do I check the status of my visa extension?
To check your visa status, here's what you need to do:Visit the portal: https://smartservices.ica.gov.ae/echannels/web/client/default.html#/fileValidity.Click on the “Passport Information” tab.Select “Visa”Enter your Passport number and Passport expiry date.Select your nationality.More items...
Can you stay in the US while waiting for visa extension?
Further, once your original nonimmigrant status expires, even though you will generally be allowed to remain in the U.S. while your extension of stay application is pending, you will not be deemed to be in any new nonimmigrant status until such time as we may approve your change of status application.
How do I know if my visa is approved?
Check the Status of a Visa Application For nonimmigrant visas, call 1-603-334-0888. Or use the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).
How long after visa interview will I get my passport?
How long after the visa interview will I get my passport? If the consulate officer approves your immigrant visa application, it takes 7 to 10 days to get back your passport.
How long does it take to get visa?
It takes from 3 to 5 weeks for a US visa application to get processed. After the processing, the applicant can get a positive reply on their application, and the consulate will deliver the document. The delivery of the visa can take up to two other workdays.
Can you stay in the US while waiting for visa extension?
Further, once your original nonimmigrant status expires, even though you will generally be allowed to remain in the U.S. while your extension of stay application is pending, you will not be deemed to be in any new nonimmigrant status until such time as we may approve your change of status application.
What happens if my visa extension is denied?
If the response is a denial, and your I-94 has expired, the USCIS generally allows you 30 days to depart the U.S. starting from the date on the letter notifying you of their decision to deny your extension. If you do not depart within 30 days, you will be considered deportable.
How can I stay in US longer than 3 months?
You must apply for a visa (B2 visa) if you want to stay in the U.S. for more than 90 days, no matter what the reason. You must apply for a visa (B1 visa) if you are traveling to the U.S. for employment or business purposes involving remuneration, even if not staying longer than 90 days.
How can I extend my visit visa after 90 days?
Fill the extension form of multiple visit visa, attach sponsor iqama copy, front and back copy of passport, visa extension payment receipt, insurance renewed receipt and Absher error screenshot, if available.
What to do if you don't hear from USCIS?
Again, be nice, courteous, and write a short letter. Do not write a big personal story. If you don’t hear from USCIS after 1 month, write a similar letter once more.
How long does it take for USCIS to process an extension?
When you file your extension, you should receive an official receipt from the USCIS within 4 to 6 weeks.
How long do you have to wait to get an answer from USCIS?
If you don’t hear from USCIS after 1 month, write a similar letter once more. After that, you can write another letter every 2 weeks until you get an answer. However, do not write anything that would indicate that you are upset.
Why is USCIS examining L-1 renewals?
Because of the new policy guidance for nonimmigrant worker visa renewals , USCIS officers are now examining each L-1 visa renewal petition as though it were an original application — even if the underlying facts and other details have not changed. As a result, renewals are closely examined for inconsistencies or errors, and supporting documentation is analyzed for sufficiency.
What is RFE in USCIS?
If USCIS believes that there is insufficient evidence to support a L-1 visa renewal, then it may send a Request for Evidence (RFE). A RFE is not a denial of a petition, but it can extend the overall processing time for your visa renewal. A skilled L-1 visa extension lawyer can work with you to help you develop a strategy to respond to the RFE.
How long is an L-1 visa valid?
The L-1 visa is a nonimmigrant work visa that allows multinational companies to transfer certain employees from overseas offices to U.S. locations. Initially valid for a period of one to three years, an L-1 visa can be extended for either seven years (for L-1A visas) or five years (for L-1B visas).
What happens if USCIS does not process L-1 visa extension?
If USCIS does not process the petition within that time, then the fee will be refunded. The fee for premium process is paid on top of the regular fees for a L-1 visa extension petition.
How to file for an extension for a L-1 visa?
To file for a L-1 visa extension, a petitioner must submit Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, along with the appropriate filing fees and supporting documentation. The basic evidence that must be submitted includes:
How long does it take to get an L-1 extension?
While it can take up to a year or longer to be approved for an initial L-1 visa, obtaining an extension has historically been a much faster process. Currently, L-1 visa extension (which are processed with Form I-129 through the Texas Service Center) are listed by USCIS to take approximately five and a half months; however, in our experience, the Texas Service Center has been very inconsistent overall in processing L-1 extensions and it may take far longer (or slightly shorter) than that time frame to obtain an adjudication.
How long does it take for an I-129 to be processed?
For Form I-129, the employer can pay a fee of $1,410 and file an additional form for expedited processing. Instead of a wait time of almost six months, the petition will be processed or, at a minimum, a Request for Evidence will be issued, within fifteen days. If USCIS does not process the petition within that time, then the fee will be refunded. The fee for premium process is paid on top of the regular fees for a L-1 visa extension petition.
What if it is Denied?
Remaining in the U.S. after your J-1 visa extension has been denied can result in you being considered “out of status”, which can have serious consequences in the future if you attempt to apply for another visa or green card.
How to request a J-1 visa waiver?
To request a J-1 visa waiver, you will need to file a DS-3035. The form must be completed with relevant information, which includes your SEVIS number, the date you entered the U.S. under J-1 status, and information about your J-2 dependents (if any). You will also need every DS-2019/IAP-66 ever issued to you as well as supporting evidence to prove that you meet the requirements for the waiver. The J-1 visa waiver filing fee is $120.
What to do if you are seeking a change of category related to your J-1 visa extension?
If you are seeking a change of category related to your J-1 visa extension then you must clearly demonstrate that it is closely related to your original exchange objectives and necessary as the result of extraordinary circumstances.
What is a J-1 visa?
Let’s start with a brief rundown of the J-1 visa. This nonimmigrant category is for program-based immigration rather than employer-based. A government-approved sponsorship program will provide you with a completed DS-2019 form to be filed with the USCIS.
What is the grace period for J-1?
J-1 Traveling Grace Period. There is a travel grace period which may be important for you to understand. As indicated on DS-2019, there is a grace period that USCIS allows for individuals completing the United States to depart the country.
How much does it cost to reinstate a minor infraction?
You will have to pay a nonrefundable reinstatement fee of $367 to the DOS.
How to update DS-2019?
You should consult the officer of your program. They’ll then need to submit a request in writing to the DOS on your behalf and corresponding payment (fee) will need to be submitted. Should your request be accepted, the officer will issue an updated DS-2019.
How Long Does it Take to Get a US Visa?
The US visa processing time depends on the type of visa that you are applying for. It takes from 3 to 5 weeks for a US visa application to get processed. After the processing, the applicant can get a positive reply on their application, and the consulate will deliver the document. The delivery of the visa can take up to two other workdays.
How long does it take for a P-1 visa to process?
If you do not have premium processing, after USCIS approves the petition, it might take another 2 to 3 months for the visa to process. P-1 visa. 3 to 6 months. It is a long wait, but the US institutions offer the opportunity to pay for premium processing.
How long does it take to get a visa after an F-2 interview?
F-2 visa. Few days to 2 weeks. After your F-2 interview, you might get a response immediately from your interviewer on whether you got the visa or you were denied. However, it is more common that the wait will be a few days or weeks.
How long do you have to wait to get a visa waiver?
Applicants who are required to apply for a waiver of ineligibility in order to get the visa, should keep in might that they will have to wait for 6 to 8 months from the date of their interview to get a reply.
How long does it take to get a visa reviewed?
It can take a few weeks for an applicant that applies for i.e. a tourist visa, while it may take months for another to get a response for the same visa, because of his / her situation.
How long does it take to get a response from ESTA?
Whereas, countries under the visa waiver program, applying through Electronic Travel Authorization System for short term visits, can get a reply in their ESTA application within 72 hours.
How long does it take to get a response from a blanket petition?
In addition, employers have the option of obtaining premium processing for the additional fees, which will speed up the L-1A processing time and you’ll get a response within 1 to 3 weeks. L-2 visa. 15 days to 1 month.
Can B2 Visas be extended?
Yes, your B2 Visa can be extended as long as you meet the requirements listed below.
How to Extend B2 visa?
A B2 visa can be extended by filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status with the USCIS.
How long does it take to receive an I-539?
After you file your Form I-539 with the USCIS Lockbox facility, a notice of receipt will be sent to your address within 4 to 6 weeks. It is just a notice of confirmation from USCIS that they received your application and it will also include approximate processing time and your case status number.
Where to find expiration date on I-94?
You can see your expiration date on the bottom right corner of your Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record. If you stay in the United States past your visa expiration date without submitting a request to the USCIS, you risk being deported and/or prohibited from reentering the United States.
How long before I-800A extension?
How to Request Extensions: You must file Form I-800A, Supplement 3 with an updated home study before your Form I-800A approval expires, but no earlier than 90 days before it expires. There are no fees for your first extension. Each additional extension requires filing and biometrics fees.
What is the form I-800A?
Form I-800A, Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country.
What happens if I don't get an extension for I-800A?
If you do not request an extension before your Form I-800A approval expires, you must file a new Form I-800A application with fee if you wish to continue with the Hague adoption process. See the Form I-800A instructions for more information.
When does the I-600A expire?
If your Form I-600A was first approved Jan. 1, 2019, and you received an extension beginning July 1, 2020, your extension would expire Jan. 1, 2022. Form I-800A, Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country.
How long does it take for an I-600A to expire?
1, 2019, the approval would expire July 1, 2020. How to Request an Extension: Submit the following to the USCIS National Benefits Center (NBC) before your Form I-600A approval expires, but no earlier than 90 days before it expires:
Can I request an extension for my I-600A?
You may only request one extension. If you wish to have additional validity time after your first extension expires, you must file a new Form I-600A with filing and biometrics fees and an updated home study. If you do not request an extension before your Form I-600A approval expires, you must file a new Form I-600A with fee or a Form I-600 ...
Can I file an I-600A extension?
Extension and Validity Periods. Once you file your child’s Form I-600 or Form I-800 petition, you do not need to continue to extend or file new Form I-600As or Form I-800As. For the orphan process, you may choose to forgo filing Form I-600A, and instead, also request a suitability determination with your child’s Form I-600 ...
What If I Get an H-1B Extension Denial?
First of all, you will want to determine whether your H-1B extension was denied or if it was rejected. Even though they seem like synonyms, in immigration law terminology, there is a crucial difference between these two terms.
What happens if USCIS fails to process my petition?
If the USCIS fails to process your petition in the promised time, you will receive a refund of your premium processing fee, and your petition will be processed normally. Keep in mind that the USCIS reserves the right to suspend premium processing for any fiscal year.
How to file an I-129 extension?
Your employer will have to file a Form I-129 on your behalf and submit it with all of the necessary documents. A new Labor Condition Application (LCA) for an extension beyond the initial three-year period must also be submitted by your employer along with the I-129. Keep in mind that the old rule where an employer would be allowed to submit an H-1B extension request with a pending LCA does not apply anymore. Now, your employer must wait and receive the approved LCA from the Department of Labor before filing an I-129 on behalf of an employee.
When does an employer file an extension petition?
The sponsoring employer files the extension petition on time before the expiration of the current status.
What is a copy of a job offer letter?
Copy of the job offer letter showing the salary offered, job title, and duties as signed by both the employer and the H-1B employee
What is the first step in a reopening case?
The first is a motion to reopen your case. This is put into effect usually when some new evidence comes up that, if viewed with your case, might change the negative decision. Therefore, you are requesting the evaluating officer to reopen the case and re-examine it with this new information.
When do I need to file an I-140?
Before the final rule, the regulations mandated that the I-140 needed to be submitted 365 days before the end of the 6-year maximum stay. Instead, the Federal Register has amended this to say that the petition must be filed at least 365 days before the beginning of your exemption.
How long does it take to get your US OPT visa?
If you’re going into your second year of a 2-year degree in the US, this will be the most pressing question you have over the next several months. And, you’ll need to get the timing right to maximise your OPT time in the US.
When should you apply for the 24-month STEM extension?
Once you receive your OPT, you can apply for the 24-month STEM extension:
What is the purpose of Prodigy Finance?
The purpose of this guide is to provide prospective students with an overview of the application process for a US student visa and OPT visa extension, and should not be regarded as legal or immigration advice or as a substitute for the official information published by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) from time to time or any instructions and/or advice provided by US em bassies and consuls. Whilst we have carefully compiled the guide in accordance with the information published by USCIS, Prodigy Finance Limited does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, mistakes, omissions or outdated information in the guide and we encourage prospective students and other readers to consult the USCIS’s website at https://www.uscis.gov. Prodigy Finance Limited is not authorised by the Department of Justice (DOJ)'s Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) to provide immigration services and will not provide any additional information or assistance to any person to apply for a US student visa, OPT, OPT visa extension or other category visa.
What is an EAD on an F-1?
EAD - Employment Authorisation Document: this is the privilege that sets the OPT apart from your F-1.
What to do if STEM extension is denied?
If your STEM OPT extension is denied, you’ll need to leave the US, though you may want to consult with an immigration lawyer about other visa classes that may be suitable for your situation. After receiving your OPT visa extension and EAD card, you can: Begin your OPT employment.
How long is an OPT visa valid?
For example, if you work for 2 months during your studies, your OPT visa will only be valid for another 10 months post-graduation. However, you may be able to work fewer than 20 hours a week on-campus without using your OPT time.
What is an OPT visa?
What is a US OPT visa? OPT stands for Optional Practical Training and there are 3 types: As part of the OPT visa rules, you must first have a valid F-1 visa for study at a SEVP-recognised institution. The OPT is not a visa class on its own, but rather it is your F-1 visa plus an Employment Authorisation Document (EAD).

The L-1 Extension Process
Standard and Premium Processing For L-1 Visas
- While it can take up to a year or longer to be approved for an initial L-1 visa, obtaining an extension has historically been a much faster process. Currently, L-1 visa extension (which are processed with Form I-129 through the Texas Service Center) are listed by USCIS to take approximately five and a halfmonths; however, in our experience, the Tex...
Factors That May Impact Processing Time
- Because of the new policy guidance for nonimmigrant worker visa renewals, USCIS officers are now examining each L-1 visa renewal petition as though it were an original application — even if the underlying facts and other details have not changed. As a result, renewals are closely examined for inconsistencies or errors, and supporting documentation is analyzed for sufficiency…