What we help with
Applications we prepare
Whether you're changing your plans, staying longer, investing in a business or bringing family together, start with the path that fits you.
Change of Status
New plans, no need to leave. Switch your status from inside the U.S.
- I-539
- I-20
F-1 Change of Status
From visitor to student. Start your studies without leaving the U.S.
- I-539
B1 Change of Status
Business brought you here. Stay in the right status for it.
- I-539
B2 Change of Status
More time with family, travel or treatment. Switch to visitor status.
- I-539
- DS-2019
J1 Change of Status
Research, teaching or training. Join your exchange program from here.
Extension of Status
Need more time? Stay longer, and stay on the right side of your dates.
Investor and green card applications
- I-129
- I-539
E-2 Treaty Investor Change of Status
You've invested in a U.S. business. Now run it from here.
- I-130
- I-485
Marriage-Based Green Card
You built a life together. Now build your future here.
- I-130
- I-485
Family-Based Green Card
Family belongs together. Start the path to a green card.
Overview
U.S. immigration applications can feel confusing because the right form depends on where you are, the status you hold now and what you want to do next. ImmigAssist prepares applications for changes of status (F-1, B-1, B-2 and J-1), extensions of stay (B-1, B-2 and E-2), E-2 treaty investor changes of status, and marriage-based and family-based green cards.
A simple way to choose: if you want to stay longer for the same purpose, you usually need an extension. If your purpose has changed, for example from visiting to studying or investing, you may need a change of status. If you want to live in the U.S. permanently through a spouse or close relative, a family petition and a green card application are the usual path.
Whatever the application, a few rules apply almost everywhere: file on time, which for temporary statuses means before the date on your I-94 record; keep your current status; and tell a clear, consistent story backed by documents. ImmigAssist is an immigration consulting company founded by immigration experts. We review your situation, prepare your forms and evidence, and go through the package with you before it is filed.
Who this is for
- You are in the U.S. and want to switch to student, visitor or exchange visitor status
- Your visit or business trip needs more time than your I-94 allows
- You have invested in a U.S. business and want E-2 treaty investor status
- You are an E-2 investor or employee whose stay is ending
- You are married to a U.S. citizen or green card holder
- You want to sponsor your parents, children or siblings for a green card
How it works
Tell us about your situation
You share your current status, dates and goals. We review them and point you to the application that fits.
Get a clear checklist
We send you a document checklist tailored to your application, so you know exactly what to collect.
We prepare your application
We prepare the forms, supporting letters and evidence package, and check every detail against your documents.
Review it together
You review the full package with us before anything is filed, and we answer your questions along the way.
Filing and updates
After filing, we keep you updated on receipt notices, biometrics, interviews and any requests for evidence.
Documents you'll usually need
- Valid passport
- I-94 arrival/departure record
- U.S. visa and entry stamp
- Proof of current status, such as an I-20, DS-2019 or approval notice
- Birth and marriage certificates, where relevant
- Financial documents, such as bank statements or tax returns
- Passport-style photos
- Certified English translations of foreign documents
Timing
Most problems come from filing too late, so start as soon as you know your plans have changed, and always before your authorized stay ends. Processing times and filing fees vary by form and change regularly. USCIS publishes current processing times and fees on uscis.gov, and we recommend checking them before you file.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a change of status and an extension?
An extension lets you stay longer in the status you already have, such as more time as a B-2 visitor. A change of status moves you to a different category, such as from B-2 to F-1 or E-2. Both are requested from inside the U.S. before your stay ends.
Do I need a lawyer to file Form I-539?
No, you can file Form I-539 yourself. Many people choose professional help to prepare a complete, well-organized application and avoid common mistakes. ImmigAssist is an immigration consulting company that prepares applications; it is not a law firm.
Which immigration application is right for me?
It depends on your current status, your I-94 date and your goal. Staying longer for the same purpose usually means an extension, a new purpose usually means a change of status, and permanent residence through family means an I-130 petition.
Can I apply from inside the U.S. if I entered with ESTA?
Generally, Visa Waiver Program visitors cannot extend their stay or change status through Form I-539. Different rules apply to some green card cases, such as those of immediate relatives of U.S. citizens.
What happens if my I-94 expires while my application is pending?
If you filed on time, you can generally remain in the U.S. while your extension or change of status is pending. You should not work unless your status allows it, and if the request is denied you are expected to leave.
How long do U.S. immigration applications take?
It depends on the form and USCIS workload, and times change. USCIS publishes current processing times on uscis.gov, which is the best place to check.
This page is general information about how these applications usually work, not advice for your specific case. USCIS rules, forms and fees change; check uscis.gov for the latest.