Can I extend my stay if I have a B-1/B-2 visa?

With a B-1 or B-2 visa your stay can be extended for up to six more month (so that you can stay a maximum time of one year.) You have to apply directly at the US Citizenship and Immigration Services service center that serves the area where you are staying (at least 45 days before your current authorized stay expires).

In addition to submitting form I-539 and a fee for filing the extension, you should also send a letter stating the reason for the extension and any supporting documentation beyond that. Unfortunately, extensions for B-1/B-2 visas are often being denied and only approved in real emergencies, e.g. for medical reasons.

Many travelers try to get an extension of their stay by trying to leave and reenter the country. If they have already completed their maximum stay of 180 days, this can cause problems, since the border officials will again have authority to permit or deny admission into the country and determine the length of the stay. This can mean the visa holder will be denied reentry into the country. Therefore you should be careful not to enter the country too frequently and not extend your stay unnecessarily.

We will be happy to assist you with any questions you might have and handle the application process for you or your company. Please let us know how we can help you. You can get in touch with us via our contact form.