USCIS have announced today that it has began to accelerate USCIS’ transition into a digital business model. Starting today, Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status can now be filed online. Form I-539 is primarily used for dependents of nonimmigrant visa holders, including the following:
- Spouses and children of H-1B, L-1, E visa and other principal employment-based nonimmigrant beneficiaries;
- B-1/B-2 business visitors;
- F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors, for certain changes and extensions of status (but not changes of status to H-1B, L-1 or another employer-sponsored nonimmigrant category).
The online filing system is currently only available for single applicants (applicants without dependents and without legal or accredited representation) currently in or applying for the following statuses:
- B-1 temporary visitor for business;
- B-2 temporary visitor for pleasure;
- F-1 academic student with a specific status expiration date;
- F-2 spouse or child of an academic student with a specific expiration date;
- M-1 vocational student; or
- M-2 spouse or child of an M-1 student.
