How Soon Do I Renew My Status in the U.S.?
10 April 2023
The validity duration of your visa does not control how long you can remain in the U.S. When you enter the U.S., your visa must be valid. However, after your have entered the U.S., your I-94 admission record controls the length of time you can remain in the U.S. This explains why many people with a 10-year multiple entry B1/B2 visitor visa will only be admitted for 6 months. Citizens of some countries may enter the U.S. without a visa. They only need to obtain an ESTA approval online. People entering the U.S. on ESTA are admitted for 90 days and they cannot extend their stay.
If a person on a B1/B2 visa wants to stay beyond the admission period on the I-94, they can apply for an extension of their stay. It should be noted that they are not extending their “visa” because that cannot be done by mail. They are merely extending their I-94 admission period. The extension application must be supported by good reason for the extended stay and evidence of financial means to remain in the U.S. Most visitors do not need to stay in the U.S. for more than 6 months. As such, USCIS will need strong evidence why more time is needed. If you need assistance, you should seek an immigration attorney in Scottsdale, AZ to help you.
US Visa Renewal
Filing for a status renewal before the existing status expires is crucial for a non-immigrant to maintain their lawful status in the United States. The renewal process can take time, and delays can result in the nonimmigrant falling out of status and facing potential deportation and future reentry bar.
It is important to note that different visa types have varying expiration dates. Some visas are valid for a certain period, such as six months or one year, while others may be valid for several years as long as the immigrant maintains their status. Understanding the expiration date of the status is important in determining when to start the renewal process.
The Typical Process To Renew Visa Permissions
Technically, one does not “renew” a visa, because the visa officer will adjudicate each application independently. Of course, if one has had a U.S. visa before, he/she has a higher chance to receive a new visa. To obtain a new visa, the applicant should follow closely the instructions on the consulate’s website for the latest information. However, one would typically need to fill out a DS-160 online or on paper, pay the filing fee, and attend the interview. Some consulates allow a “dropbox” system for people in certain circumstances. If this applies, you should also provide any required documentation to the same package. If a visa interview is required, then the applicant should be prompt and accommodating to the scheduling when it happens.
Renewal documentation, at a minimum, will require copies of current and past passports, two brand new, updated photographs of the applicant, receipts showing filing fees are paid, and a DS-160 confirmation. In addition, specific visas might have additional requirements, so it is best again to check the consulate’s website before filing.
Although any US embassy can accept visa application from any individuals who are present in the consulate’s district. However, it is usually best for the applicant to apply at the U.S. consulate of his/her home country or where he/she had obtained the visa before. Wait time for an appointment varies substantially from consulate to consulate. It is important to plan well in advance for a visa application. It is not uncommon to wait a few months for an appointment. An applicant should not plan travel without first securing a visa appointment.
Our Immigration Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, Can Help
Because of easy mistakes that can be made on immigration forms, applications, and renewal, having guidance from an immigration lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, while filing is highly advised. A simple mistake can trigger application complications. Do not guess through a visa renewal application or try to solve it with a mere google search.
JCL Immigration Attorneys, PLLC, can help clients with business, work, family and connections in Arizona. We have assisted many clients through the visa application process for various types of visa. Call us now for more information.
