Securing a work visa in the United States is an achievement that opens doors to a world of professional opportunities. However, as the expiration date of your US work visa draws near, it’s crucial to understand the process of extending it to ensure a seamless continuation of your career journey. Whether you’re an international professional seeking to extend your stay or an employer navigating the visa extension process for your valued employee, this guide will provide you with the necessary insights and steps to navigate the complexities of extending a work visa successfully.
Can I Extend My US Work Visa?
You may be eligible to apply for an extension of your authorized period of stay if:
- You were lawfully admitted into the United States with a nonimmigrant visa;
- Your nonimmigrant visa status remains valid;
- You have not committed any crimes that make you ineligible for a visa;
- You have not violated the conditions of your admission; and
- Your passport is valid and will remain valid for the duration of your stay.
Check the date in the lower right corner of your Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record, to determine the date your authorized stay expires. We recommend that you apply to extend your stay at least 45 days before your authorized stay expires.
How to Extend a US Work Visa
To apply to extend your stay, you should:
- Complete the Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. Review the form instructions for directions on completing the Form I-539.
- Submit the Filing Fee(s). Include the appropriate filing fee with your Form I-539 and biometric services fee (if applicable). Refer to the Form I-539 instructions for details.
- Submit Evidence. Include all required initial evidence and supporting documentation.
- Sign and File the Form I-539. File the application at the correct filing location according to the form instructions.
All family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) in the same category can be included on one Form I-539. Remember to submit all required supporting documents with your application.
How Much Will It Cost to Extend My US Work Permit?
To file an I-539 form it costs $370 USD. If you need to use an immigration lawyer then you should include your lawyer fees in the total cost amount.
Do You Need a US Work Permit Extension? We Can Help!
Extending your expiring US work visa requires careful planning, timely preparation, and adherence to the specific requirements of your visa category. By understanding the process, consulting with an immigration attorney, and submitting a complete application with the necessary supporting documentation, you can enhance your chances of successfully extending your visa.
If you are seeking professional immigration help, contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for VisaPlace Legal, an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.
VisaPlace Immigration News Contributor
Michael Niren, Founder of VisaPlace
Michael Niren is the founder of VisaPlace Immigration and has spent more than 30 years helping people through the immigration process. Today, VisaPlace focuses on helping Canadians move to the United States, whether for a new job, a business, family or retirement. Michael’s commentary on immigration has been featured on CNN, CBC and The Globe and Mail. VisaPlace Immigration works with licensed and experienced immigration lawyers, who are independent and operate separately from VisaPlace Immigration, and every client’s case is reviewed by one of them. Michael does not provide legal advice.
