Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status
Extends an existing nonimmigrant status or changes to a different nonimmigrant category while in the U.S.
Filing fee
$370
+ $30 biometrics
Typical processing
4-18 months
As of 2026-06-12
Category
other
USCIS (online or by mail to designated USCIS facility)
How Form I-539 compares across PetitionPace forms
Total USCIS fee rank
#16 of 26
total fee $400
Vs median fee
-$140
median $540 across 26 forms
Processing high-end rank
#8 of 19
+0 mo vs median high end
Fee comparisons use only the in-repo PetitionPace USCIS form records and the cited USCIS fee schedule/form pages. They do not imply eligibility, legal strategy, or a guarantee that USCIS will accept a filing.
Processing time
This is a point-in-time estimate. USCIS changes published ranges frequently and the live tool can vary by service center and case type.
Typical range: 4-18 months
Estimate based on USCIS data reviewed 2026-06-12. Always check the live USCIS processing-times tool at egov.uscis.gov/processing-times before making decisions.
Filing fee
Filing fees shown here are based on the USCIS fee schedule effective April 1, 2024. USCIS fees can change; always confirm the current fee at uscis.gov before submitting a form.
Filing fee: $370 + $30 biometrics
Source: USCIS Form G-1055 (effective April 1, 2024); uscis.gov/i-539
Fees and form details last reviewed June 2026 against the USCIS fee schedule (Form G-1055, effective April 1, 2024). Always confirm the current fee at uscis.gov before filing.
Where to file
Processing times are estimates based on USCIS historical data and change frequently. Always check the live USCIS processing-times tool at egov.uscis.gov/processing-times for current official ranges before making any decisions.
USCIS (online or by mail to designated USCIS facility)
Always confirm the current filing location and instructions at uscis.gov official I-539 page .
Common questions
- What is Form I-539?
- Extends an existing nonimmigrant status or changes to a different nonimmigrant category while in the U.S.
- How much does it cost to file Form I-539?
- The USCIS filing fee for Form I-539 is $370, from the fee schedule effective April 1, 2024. A biometric services fee of $30 also applies. Always confirm the current fee at uscis.gov before paying.
- How long does I-539 take?
- USCIS reports a typical processing range of 4-18 months for Form I-539 as of 2026-06-12. Processing times change monthly; always check egov.uscis.gov/processing-times for the current range.