What Should You Do If Your U.S. Visa Is About To Expire?

Traveling to the United States offers a multitude of opportunities, whether for work, study or leisure. However, as with any journey, it comes with its set of rules and regulations. The Department of Homeland Security reports that as many as 70,000 foreigners come to the United States every day, and many of them must have a visa to enter.

The type of visa you have will determine how long you can stay and what you can do while here. However, visas expire, and it is important to know what to do before that happens.

Your visa’s expiration date

Your visa expiration date is an important piece of information. This date indicates the last day you can use the visa to enter the United States, not the length of time you can stay. The Duration of Status or Admit Until Date on your I-94 form dictates how long you can remain in the country. Always check these dates and remember them, to avoid potential issues with your immigration status.

If you realize that your visa is about to expire, it is essential to take action well in advance. Do not wait until the last minute. Researching and understanding your options early can help you make informed decisions about your future travel plans. Waiting too long could cause you to lose your visa and face penalties, including the USCIS denying you future entrance into the United States.

Extension of Stay

If you wish to extend your stay in the U.S., you might be eligible to apply for an Extension of Stay with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Ensure you submit your application well before your current status expires, to ensure the USCIS has plenty of time to process your application.

Change of status

If your plans in the U.S. have changed, you may apply for a change of visa status. For instance, if you initially entered on a tourist visa but now wish to study, you can apply to change your status to a student visa.

Depart and reapply

If you do not want to extend or change your status, or if your application gets denied, you should prepare to leave the U.S. before your current status expires. After departing, if you wish to return, you can reapply for the appropriate visa from outside the country.

Stay informed

U.S. immigration rules and policies can change. It is important to stay updated with any new regulations or procedures. You can do this by regularly checking the official USCIS website.

Your time in the United States can be an enriching experience. However, to ensure it remains stress-free, pay close attention to your visa and immigration status. If your visa is nearing its expiration date, take proactive measures and ensure that you adhere to the U.S. immigration rules. This diligence will protect your interests and pave the way for future visits.