Online Form I-539 Discontinued for Changes or Extensions of Status

As of June 15, 2015, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) discontinued the online filing option for the application to extend / change nonimmigrant status (I-539 form). These changes were implemented due to USCIS updates to both the I-539 and the notice of entry of appearance (G-28).

Online Cases Pending or Drafted Before June 15, 2015

If an individual submitted the I-539 online prior to June 15th, then the USCIS will adjudicate the case. Those applicants who started the initial draft prior to June 15th but did not yet file are being given 30 days from initiation to submit the form online. If the form is submitted within the 30 days, then the case will be adjudicated. Otherwise, it will be necessary to prepare and submit the paper form I-539, with all of the required information.

Allow Time for Paper Filing

In light of the unavailability of the online I-539 option, applicants will need to allow time for transmission of paper filings. This is normally not a significant adjustment, due to availability of overnight courier services. However, it is always best to allow some extra time and file at least a few days before any deadline, to allow for unexpected or unforeseen delays in the preparation and delivery of applications or filings.

Conclusion

Applicants who do not currently have pending I-539s online, or who did not initiate a draft I-539, must paper file at this time. Filing directions are available on the USCIS WebSite.

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