B1/B2 Visa Extension: Extending Your US Tourist Stay
Extend your B1/B2 tourist or business visa stay in the United States. Covers Form I-539, eligibility, required documents, filing fees, processing times, and what to do if your extension is denied.
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Eligibility and Timing
Confirm you are in valid B1/B2 status with a current I-94
Check your I-94 record at i94.cbp.dhs.gov to verify your current authorized stay date. You must file the extension before this date passes. Filing after your I-94 expires means you are out of status, and the extension is almost certainly denied. Your I-94 status class should show B1, B2, or B1/B2.
File the extension at least 45 days before your I-94 expires
USCIS recommends filing as early as possible but no more than 6 months before your current status expires. Filing 45 days before expiration is the practical minimum. Earlier filing gives more buffer for RFEs and processing delays. The filing receipt protects your status while the extension is pending.
Have a valid reason for needing more time in the US
Acceptable reasons include medical treatment, family emergencies, completion of a specific event or business activity, or unexpected circumstances that prevent you from leaving on time. A desire to continue vacationing is weaker than a medical or family reason. Your reason must be documented and explained in a letter accompanying the application.
Filing the Application
Complete Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status
File Form I-539 online at uscis.gov or by mail to the USCIS lockbox. Online filing allows you to upload documents, pay electronically, and track your case more easily. The form asks for your current status, requested extension dates, and the reason for the extension. Use the latest version of the form.
Pay the filing fee of 370 USD plus 85 USD biometrics fee
The I-539 filing fee is 370 USD. A biometrics fee of 85 USD applies for applicants aged 14-79. Total cost is 455 USD per applicant. If multiple family members are extending together, the principal applicant files I-539 and co-applicants file Form I-539A (included free). Each co-applicant pays the 85 USD biometrics fee.
Write a cover letter explaining your reason for the extension
The cover letter is your opportunity to explain why you need additional time. State your original entry date, current I-94 expiration, requested extension duration (typically 6 months), and the specific reason. Attach supporting documents like medical records, event confirmations, or a letter from a family member explaining the situation.
Include proof of financial support for the extended stay
Demonstrate you can support yourself during the extended stay. Bank statements showing sufficient funds, a letter from your financial sponsor in the US, or employment verification from your home country showing you are on approved leave. USCIS wants to see you will not become a public charge during the extension.
Include proof of ties to your home country
Demonstrate you intend to leave the US after the extension. Employment letters, property ownership documents, enrollment in educational programs, or family responsibilities in your home country all serve this purpose. This is one of the most important elements. Weak ties to your home country are a common reason for extension denials.
After Filing
Receive the filing receipt (I-797C) within 2-4 weeks
The receipt notice confirms USCIS received your application. It contains your receipt number for tracking. Once filed, you are authorized to remain in the US while the extension is pending, even if your original I-94 expires. Carry the receipt notice as proof of your pending status. Do not leave the US while the extension is pending.
Attend the biometrics appointment if scheduled
USCIS may schedule a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC). You receive a notice (I-797C) with the date, time, and location. Bring the notice, your passport, and a photo ID. The appointment takes 15-30 minutes for fingerprints and a photo. Missing the appointment without rescheduling can result in denial.
Wait for processing, typically 3-8 months
B1/B2 extension processing takes 3-8 months depending on the USCIS service center and current workload. Premium processing is not available for I-539. While waiting, you are in authorized status. Track your case online using the receipt number. If processing exceeds 6 months, consider contacting your congressperson's office for a case inquiry.
After the Decision
If approved, note the new authorized stay date on the I-797
The approval notice shows your new authorized stay expiration date. This replaces your original I-94 date. The extension is typically granted for 6 months from the date of approval or from your original I-94 expiration, depending on the request. Make plans to depart before this new date.
If denied, leave the US within the timeline specified in the denial
A denial means you must leave the US as soon as possible. If your original I-94 has already expired, you begin accruing unlawful presence from the date of denial. Unlawful presence of 180+ days triggers a 3-year re-entry bar. Unlawful presence of 1+ year triggers a 10-year bar. Consult an immigration attorney immediately after a denial.
Do not leave the US while the extension is pending
Departing the US while the I-539 is pending is considered abandonment of the application. The extension will be denied. If you must leave due to an emergency, consult an immigration attorney about the consequences before departing. Re-entry on a pending extension is not guaranteed. This guide is informational only, not legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a B1/B2 extension take to process?
Processing typically takes 3-8 months. Premium processing is not available for Form I-539. While the extension is pending, you are authorized to remain in the US. Track your case at egov.uscis.gov/casestatus. Current processing times by service center are published on the USCIS website.
Can I work while on a B1/B2 extension?
No. B1/B2 visa holders are not authorized to work in the United States. This prohibition applies during the original stay and the extension. Working without authorization violates your visa status and can result in denial of the extension, removal proceedings, and bars on future US visas. Volunteer work for non-profit organizations may be permitted under specific conditions.
What happens if my extension is denied after my I-94 expired?
If your extension is denied after your original I-94 date passed, you begin accruing unlawful presence from the date of denial. You must leave the US immediately. Unlawful presence of 180 days to 1 year triggers a 3-year re-entry bar. Over 1 year triggers a 10-year bar. These bars apply when you next apply for a US visa or admission. Consult an immigration attorney immediately.
Can I apply for a second B1/B2 extension?
Yes, you can file a second extension before the first extension expires. However, multiple extensions raise scrutiny about your ties to your home country and intent to return. USCIS may deny a second extension if it appears you are using the B1/B2 visa as a de facto long-term residence. Strong documentation of ties to your home country and a compelling reason for the second extension are critical.