How do I change my status from B2 to F1?

How do I change my status from B2 to F1?

All other B1 and B2 visitors may apply for a change of nonimmigrant status to F1/M1 student by filing the Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Status. However, B visitors should be aware of the 30/60 day rule [see comprehensive article].

Can I convert my B2 visa to F1?

If you are in the United States as a tourist (on a B-2 visitor visa), it is possible to change your status to F-1 student, by submitting a request to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). However, getting this request approved is anything but guaranteed.

How long does it take for USCIS to approve change of status?

6 to 12 months
Change of Status Within the United States. Important points to know: Processing with USCIS can take 6 to 12 months plus mailing time or longer depending on USCIS processing times. While the application is pending you may not leave the United States.

How long does it take for I-539 to be approved?

I-539 petitions sent to the California Service Center take 1 – 5 months to process, while petitions sent to the Nebraska Service Center take 6 – 8 months. Petitions handled by the National Benefits Center have the best processing times with a turnaround time of as little as one week.

How long does it take to change visa status from B2 to F1?

The Trump administration put in place a policy specifically designed to increase the burden and cost of the B-2 visitor to F-1 student change of status process. Currently, USCIS takes approximately 10-12 months to process an application for change or extension of status, Form I-539.

How can I change my B2 visa to green card?

As a B-1/B-2 visitor, you could potentially apply for a green card from within the United States, a process known as “adjustment of status” (AOS). You can also apply from your home country using consular processing.

How long does it take for I-539 to be approved after Biometrics?

As per USCIS guidance, typically they would take about 17 days on average to complete the I-539 biometric process from the day they receive the I-539 application(assuming no re-schedules) form.

Can I leave while I-539 is pending?

If you leave while your I-539 is pending it will be denied as an abandoned petition. Any unlawful presence here would have to be explained when you attempt to apply for another nonimmigrant visa.

What happens after I-539 is approved?

Until the Form I-539 is approved, the person is not officially in student status and cannot start classes. This also applies for people transitioning from F-2 status to F-1 status. The process generally takes 3–6 months, which can be considerably longer than traveling outside the United States and getting a new visa.

Can I apply for M status while my Form I-539 is pending?

Please note that if you are applying to change status to M status, you must maintain a valid nonimmigrant status while your Form I-539 change of status application is pending.

When does USCIS grant a change of status to F1?

To prevent a “gap” in status, USCIS will grant the change of status to F-1 effective the day we approve an applicant’s Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. If we approve an application more than 30 days before the student’s program start date, the student must ensure they do not violate their F-1 status during that time.

What is the new USCIS Form I-539 policy?

The new policy will reduce workloads and costs for both the applicants and USCIS. USCIS is in the process of revising the Form I-539 instructions to reflect these changes. For more information, see the policy alert (PDF, 318.8 KB) and the Changing to a Nonimmigrant F or M Student Status page.

When to file Form I-539 for a k-3/4 visa?

File Form I-539 to extend your status while your permanent resident case is pending. You may file Form I-765 with Form I-539. You may travel outside of the United States and be readmitted as a K-3/4, if you have a valid passport and K-3/4 visa. V nonimmigrants: You may file Form I-765 with Form I-539.