Update: Implementation of Revised Form I-539 and New Form I-539A

By: Angelita Chavez-Halaka, Armando Escobedo, Gladys Gervacio

Summary

On March 08, 2019, USCIS will publish on its website the revised Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status) and new Form I-539A (Supplemental Information for Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status).

Implementation Procedure:

Previous editions of Form I-539 will continue to be accepted by USCIS if received no later than March 21, 2019. USCIS will only accept the new Form I-539 with an edition date of 02/04/2019 beginning on March 22, 2019.

Changes to Form I-539:

Form I-539A will replace Supplement A from previous editions of Form I-539. Each co-applicant included in the primary applicant’s Form I-539 must also sign and file a separate Form I-539A.

• Form I-539A cannot not be submitted as a standalone form
• Parents or guardians may sign on behalf of their children that are under the age of 14

The primary applicant and co-applicant(s) will each be required to pay the $85 biometric services fee (except for certain A, G, and NATO nonimmigrants).

All applicants, regardless of age, will be required to appear for scheduled biometric services appointment at the Application Support Center (ASC) that is closest to the primary applicant’s address.

• Co-applicants should file a separate Form I-539 if they wish to be scheduled at a different ASC location.

USCIS will reject Form I-539 and Form I-539A that are missing the required signatures or biometrics fee.

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