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FAQs About
Change or Extension of Status
If you're unsure how to change or extend your status, you're not alone—these applications can feel overwhelming. We’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions about timelines, eligibility, and maintaining compliance. Whether you're on a visitor visa, student visa, or another non-immigrant status, we can help. Review our FAQs to see how we address common concerns and guide clients through the process.
When should I file for a visa extension or change of status, and what are the risks of filing too late or too early?
USCIS recommends filing at least 45 days before your current status expires, but no more than six months in advance. Filing late can result in unlawful presence, while filing too early may lead to rejections. Nimer Law tracks your immigration timeline and files strategically to protect your legal stay in the U.S.
What is the difference between changing and extending nonimmigrant status, and how can an immigration attorney in Dublin, Ohio guide me through the right process?
An extension allows you to stay longer in your current visa category, while a change of status lets you switch to a different nonimmigrant category (e.g., from B-2 to F-1). An immigration attorney in Dublin, Ohio helps determine eligibility, prepares supporting evidence, and ensures that your application complies with strict USCIS timelines and documentation standards.
Can I stay in the U.S. while my change or extension of status is pending, and how can Nimer Law help avoid a lapse in legal status?
Yes, you can generally remain in the U.S. while a timely filed application is pending, even after your current status expires. However, unauthorized work or incomplete applications can jeopardize your case. Nimer Law ensures that your application is fully compliant and monitors updates to avoid gaps in lawful presence or eligibility for future immigration benefits.
What happens if my change or extension of status application is denied, and what are my legal options after a USCIS denial?
If denied, you may fall out of status and begin accruing unlawful presence, which can affect future visa eligibility or trigger reentry bans. Nimer Law helps clients understand the reasons for denial, advises on options like refiling, departing the U.S. promptly, or changing strategy through consular processing or other relief mechanisms.
Can I travel internationally while my change or extension of status is pending, and what are the consequences if I do?
Traveling abroad while a change of status is pending is considered abandonment of the application, and you may need to apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate before returning. Nimer Law provides travel advisories based on your immigration history and goals, helping you avoid unintentional forfeiture of your application or future visa complications.