1629 K Street Suite 300 NW Washington DC 20006
66 West Flagler street suite 900 Miami FL 33130
CHANGE OF STATUS (I-539) – EXTENDING OR CHANGING NONIMMIGRANT STATUS
Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, allows certain nonimmigrants already in the United States to change to another visa category or extend their current status without leaving the country.
✦FAMILY-BASED IMMIGRATION ✦VAWA Self-Petitions ✦VISAS ✦U.S. CITIZENSHIP
WHO CAN FILE FORM I-539?
This form is typically used by individuals in nonimmigrant visa categories who want to:
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B-1/B-2 TOURIST OR BUSINESS VISA → F-1 OR M-1 STUDENT VISA
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Individuals who enter the U.S. as visitors and later decide to pursue academic or vocational studies can apply for a change to student status before enrolling in classes.
F-1 STUDENT VISA → H-1B WORK VISA
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Graduates on Optional Practical Training (OPT) may transition to an employment-based visa if sponsored by a U.S. employer.
J-1 EXCHANGE VISA → F-1 STUDENT VISA
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Some J-1 visa holders may switch to an F-1 visa for further studies (if they are not subject to the two-year home residency requirement).
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H-4 DEPENDENT VISA → F-1 STUDENT VISA
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Spouses or children of H-1B visa holders may apply for an F-1 student visa to enroll in an academic program.
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L-2 DEPENDENT VISA → H-1B WORK VISA
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Spouses of L-1 visa holders may transition to an H-1B work visa if they receive sponsorship from a U.S. employer.
WHO CANNOT CHANGE STATUS IN THE U.S.?
To qualify for asylum, an applicant must demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution based on at least one of the following protected grounds:
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Visitors who entered under the ESTA / Visa Waiver Program (VWP) cannot apply for a change of status.
J-1 visa holders subject to the two-year home residency requirement must apply for a waiver before changing status.
Certain employment-based visa holders may need to leave the U.S. and apply for a new visa through consular processing instead.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS FOR CHANGE OF STATUS:
Timing is crucial – The I-539 application must be filed before the current visa status expires to avoid unlawful presence.
Applicants cannot start activities related to the new visa until USCIS approves the change of status.
Processing times vary, and applicants may need to maintain their current status while waiting for approval.
I can assist with preparing and filing Form I-539, ensuring all requirements are met and guiding you through the process of legally changing your status while remaining in the U.S.
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OUR STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS
We make immigration simple and transparent. From your first consultation to the final decision, our team is here to guide you with clarity, care, and expertise.
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STEP 01
CONSULTATION
We carefully assess your situation, listen to your goals, and outline the best legal options.
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STEP 02
LEGAL STRATEGY
A tailored plan is built around your needs, ensuring all forms and documents meet immigration standards.
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STEP 03
ONGOING GUIDANCE
We keep you informed at every stage, answer your questions, and provide support until your case is resolved.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY
Our clients’ success stories are at the heart of what we do. From green cards to citizenship, we’re honored to guide individuals and families through every step of their immigration journey.
FAMILY-BASED IMMIGRATION
Jakab Law made my entire green card process seamless from start to finish. Their team explained everything clearly, guided me through each requirement, and answered all my questions with patience. What could have been an overwhelming and stressful experience became manageable and straightforward. Their compassionate support gave me confidence and peace of mind every step of the way. I am truly grateful for their professionalism and care.
SOPHIA MARTINEZ
Houston, TX
U.S. CITIZENSHIP
Thanks to Jakab Law, my naturalization process was incredibly smooth and completely stress-free. From the first consultation to the final oath ceremony, they kept me informed, prepared, and confident at every stage. Their professionalism and compassion made a complicated process feel simple, and I always knew I had someone on my side.”
JAMES PATEL
Houston, TX
PROUDLY SERVING WASHINGTON & MIAMI
Our offices are conveniently located to serve clients across Washington, D.C., Miami, and nationwide. Whether you’re nearby or connecting with us remotely, we’re dedicated to providing trusted legal guidance wherever you are.
WASHINGTON
DC office: 202-972-0270
1629 K Street Suite 300 NW Washington DC 20006
MIAMI
Miami office: 786-673-1461
66 West Flagler street suite 900 Miami FL 33130
PROTECT YOUR STATUS, SECURE YOUR FUTURE
Don’t risk falling out of status in the United States. At Jakab Law, we provide clear guidance and reliable representation for extending or changing your nonimmigrant status.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the next step with confidence.
SCHEDULE NOW
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