Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status
I-539 · Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status
Extends or changes a nonimmigrant status inside the U.S. (for example H-4, L-2, B-1/B-2, F-1, O-3).
Median processing days
240 days
about 8 months
Typical range (80%)
120–480 days
Most cases decided within about 1.3 years
Approval rate
87.3%
Trailing 12 months · 2025 Q4
Source: USCIS Processing Times and official quarterly data (2025 Q4 snapshot). For reference only, not a time commitment.
Purpose and process
Often filed with the principal's I-129 or another I-539. Combined H-4 / L-2 EAD requests are usually filed with an I-765.
Who files it
Nonimmigrants and their dependents already inside the U.S.
Official references
Common USCIS statuses for this form
Case Was Received
USCIS has received your filing and generated a receipt number. This is only the starting point — active review has not begun yet.
Case Was Approved
The case is approved.
Request For Additional Evidence Was Sent
USCIS issued a Request for Evidence — the officer needs additional evidence before making a decision.
Case Was Denied
The case has been denied.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stay legally after filing I-539?
If you file before your current status expires and the case is pending, you are typically in a period of authorized stay and are not accruing unlawful presence.
How long is a B-2 extension usually granted?
Typically a single 6-month extension, at USCIS's discretion. File before your I-94 expires.
Can I-539 and I-765 be filed together?
Yes — H-4 / L-2 extensions are frequently filed with I-765 renewals. Note that I-765 approval typically depends on the underlying I-539 approval.
Track your I-539 case
Enter your receipt number. MyCases polls USCIS on a schedule and alerts you the moment the status changes — by email, Telegram or WeChat Work. Free forever.
General information only, not legal advice. Official USCIS notices in writing always take precedence.