New Version of Form I-539 Required as of April 1, 2002
Posted Feb 08, 2002

The INS recently revised Form I-539, Application to Extend / Change Nonimmigrant Status. The old version is marked 10/13/98N. The INS had previously announced that the 10/13/98 version could be used until December 31, 2001. Due to printing delays and the field distribution process, however, the form will remain valid until March 30, 2002.

The Form I-539 is the standard application form for extending or changing status in the non-working categories. These categories include dependents, such as H-4s and L-2s, as well as visitors, students, and others. The instructions on the form specify which types of applicants must use the I-539. According to INS, the new version will update and clarify those instructions.

The new forms are scheduled for distribution to the public in the second quarter of fiscal year (FY) 2002. As the government's fiscal year is from October 1 to September 30, the forms should become available by April 1, 2002.