The B-1/B-2 visitor visa allows foreign nationals to enter the United States temporarily for business (B-1) or pleasure/tourism/medical treatment (B-2). The initial admission is typically for up to 6 months (180 days).
32 steps across 4 sections
1. Eligibility
- Must currently hold valid B-1 or B-2 status (check your I-94 expiration date).
- Must not have entered under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA/VWP entries are NOT eligible for extensions).
- Must have a valid reason for the extension (medical treatment, family emergency, delayed travel plans, etc.).
- Must demonstrate intent to depart the U.S. when the extended stay ends.
- Must have sufficient financial resources to support the extended stay.
- Must not have violated the terms of your current status (no unauthorized employment).
- Must file the extension request before your I-94 expires.
2. Steps Process
- Check your I-94 expiration date: Visit i94.cbp.dhs.gov to obtain your electronic I-94 and verify your authorized stay period.
- Determine eligibility: Confirm you did not enter under the Visa Waiver Program and have a valid reason for extending.
- Prepare Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status).
- Gather supporting documents: Include evidence justifying the extension and financial support documentation.
- Pay the filing fee: $470 plus $85 biometrics fee (for ages 14-79).
- Submit the application by mail to the designated USCIS lockbox (there is no online filing option for B-1/B-2 extensions).
- Receive receipt notice (Form I-797C) confirming USCIS received the application.
- Attend biometrics appointment (if required).
- Await decision: Processing takes 5-12 months.
- If approved: Receive a new I-94 with the extended stay dates.
3. Documents Needed
- Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status)
- Filing fee ($470 + $85 biometrics)
- Copy of passport (biographical page, visa stamp page)
- Copy of I-94 (electronic printout from CBP website)
- Copy of any prior I-539 approvals
- Passport-style photograph
- Evidence justifying the extension
- Letter explaining the reason for the extension (medical emergency, family situation, travel complications)
- Medical records (if medical treatment is the reason)
- Flight itineraries showing planned departure
4. Timeline
- When to file At least 45 days before your I-94 expires. USCIS recommends filing as early as possible.
- Processing time 5-12 months (as of 2026).
- Extension period Up to 6 months per extension.
- Status while pending If you file timely, you remain in authorized status while the extension is pending, even if your I-94 expires.
- Important You cannot travel internationally while the extension is pending without abandoning the application.
Common Mistakes
- Filing after the I-94 expires
- Entering under VWP/ESTA and trying to extend
- Not demonstrating a valid reason
- Insufficient financial evidence
- Working on B-1/B-2 status
Pro Tips
- File as early as possible
- Show strong ties to your home country
- Include a clear departure plan
- Keep your passport valid
- Request only the time you need