Waiving the fees for extension of stay ( I-539) for visitors who are stuck in USA [closed]

My parents who are currently here in the US for visiting are not able to go back due to covid-19 flight cancellations. Hence I would have to file for extension, but why is the fees not being waived as its not our mistake. The total fees is more than $500.

Best Answer

The I-539 fee is not a fine. The I-539 form is not primarily intended for the correction of mistakes. The I-539 is the form with which one applies to change or extend nonimmigrant status, and that is what your parents want to do. To make the application, they need to pay the application fee.

There is a fee waiver available, but it is only available to some filers of the I-539. Even if your parents are eligible to apply for a waiver, I would not apply for one without first checking with an immigration lawyer, because asking for a fee waiver could reduce the chance of the application being approved.

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Can I stay in the US while my I-539 is being processed?

What If My Form I-539 is Pending and My I-94 Expired? If you have filed for an extension before your I-94 expired date and your application is still under review, you may stay in the U.S. for 240 days. You need to have followed and continue following the terms of your status.

Can I stay in US while waiting for extension?

Once you submit your application for an extension of status, you are permitted to remain in the U.S. until you receive a decision from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)\u2014even if your permitted stay expires while USCIS is considering your application.

What if I file on time for an extension but I leave the United States before USCIS makes a decision on my application?

If you leave the U.S. before a decision is made on your application to extend and you plan to return to the U.S. in the future, please keep a copy of your application plus the receipt notice to show to the Immigration Inspector on your return travel to the U.S. Otherwise, you may be denied entry for overstaying on your ...

How do I extend my US visa due to Covid 19?

Apply for an Extension. Most nonimmigrants can mitigate the immigration consequences of COVID-19 by timely filing an application for extension of stay (EOS) or change in status (COS). USCIS continues to accept and process applications and petitions, and many of our forms are available for online filing.

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