Extension of Stay USCIS Fee: What You Need to Know

Are you planning to extend your stay in the United States? Whether you're a tourist, student, or worker, the process of staying longer than initially planned requires approval from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Extending your stay isn't always as simple as filling out a form—there are critical details to consider, including fees, timelines, and eligibility. Let's dive into everything you need to know about the USCIS extension of stay fee and the entire process.

Why Does the USCIS Charge a Fee?

The U.S. government, through USCIS, is tasked with overseeing lawful immigration to the United States. Services like extensions of stay cost the agency time and resources. These fees cover the administrative costs of processing applications, background checks, and the management of documents related to your case. The revenue collected is primarily used to keep USCIS operations running smoothly. Without fees, these services would likely be slower and less efficient.

The Importance of Filing on Time

Timeliness is crucial when it comes to an extension of stay. You need to apply before your current authorized stay expires. Late applications may result in penalties or denial of your request. The fees paid for an extension are non-refundable, meaning that even if your request is denied, you won’t be able to recoup the money. This highlights the importance of ensuring that you’re eligible and that you have filed your extension properly.

How Much Does the Extension of Stay Fee Cost?

As of the latest USCIS guidelines, the fee for filing Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status) is $370. However, most applicants are also required to pay an $85 biometric services fee (totaling $455). This biometric fee covers fingerprinting, photo, and sometimes other identifying information, which is crucial for security purposes and verifying your identity.

Let’s break it down:

Fee Type	Cost (USD)
Form I-539 Filing Fee	$370
Biometrics Fee	$85
Total	$455

The biometric services fee is a necessary step for most applicants, as it helps the government ensure that the person applying is indeed who they claim to be.

Can Fees Change?

Yes. USCIS updates its fees regularly to reflect inflation and the increasing costs of maintaining the immigration system. Always check the most recent fee schedule on the official USCIS website before submitting your application. It’s a good practice to calculate both the form filing fee and biometric fee before applying to avoid any surprises.

Who Needs to Pay the Fee?

The fee applies to most nonimmigrants who are looking to extend their stay in the U.S. This includes people with visas like:

• B-1 or B-2 visitors (tourists or business visitors)
• F-1 students or those on educational exchange programs
• H-1B workers looking to extend their employment period
• Dependents of nonimmigrant visa holders (spouses, children)

Each applicant, including family members applying together, must pay the fee. If you're applying as a family group, you can file Form I-539A as a supplement, but the fees remain applicable for each individual.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Despite following instructions, many applicants still encounter issues when applying for an extension. Some common errors that can lead to complications include:

• Incorrect Fee Submission: Always double-check the amount you need to pay. Underpayment or overpayment can delay the processing of your request.

• Incomplete Forms: An incomplete or improperly filled-out Form I-539 can result in denial or delays. All fields should be completed, and signatures should be included where required.

• Submitting After Authorized Stay Expires: Filing after your authorized stay has expired can result in being labeled as "unlawfully present," which may affect your future immigration status.

Are There Any Exceptions to the Fee?

Some applicants may qualify for a fee waiver, but these are rare and often tied to extreme circumstances. If you believe you’re eligible for a waiver, it’s essential to provide clear documentation demonstrating your inability to pay. USCIS provides guidelines on how to apply for a waiver, which usually involves filling out Form I-912 (Request for Fee Waiver).

How Long Does the Extension Process Take?

Processing times for extension applications can vary depending on several factors:

1. Location of Filing: Different USCIS service centers may have varying workloads, which can affect how long it takes for them to process your application.

2. Type of Visa: Certain visa types, such as employment-based or education-based visas, might take longer to process than tourist visa extensions.

3. Biometrics Appointment: If biometrics are required, this adds extra time to the overall process. Once your biometrics have been submitted, the USCIS can move forward with evaluating your extension request.

Generally, applicants should expect processing times to range between 2 and 6 months, though this can fluctuate depending on the factors mentioned above.

What Happens If Your Extension Request is Denied?

Receiving a denial can be disheartening, especially after paying the USCIS fees and waiting for months. If your extension request is denied, you must leave the United States by the expiration of your current authorized stay. Failing to do so can lead to serious consequences, such as being barred from reentering the U.S. for several years.

There’s typically no refund for fees paid, so it’s critical to ensure that your application is strong from the outset. Many applicants choose to hire an immigration attorney to assist with their case, although this is not required.

Does Extending Your Stay Impact Future Immigration Applications?

Extending your stay beyond your original visa period may raise some flags during future immigration processes. If you overstay without proper authorization, it could complicate your ability to obtain visas or reenter the U.S. later on. Therefore, it’s essential to adhere strictly to immigration timelines and regulations.

If you follow all the required steps and stay within legal boundaries, extending your stay should not negatively affect future travel or visa applications.

Final Thoughts: Is the Fee Worth It?

For most, the answer is yes. The fee, while significant, pales in comparison to the long-term benefits of being able to stay in the U.S. legally. Whether you're continuing your studies, completing a work assignment, or spending more time with family, an approved extension offers peace of mind and legal security.

Understanding the USCIS extension of stay fee and process can make all the difference between a smooth transition and unnecessary complications. Be thorough, pay your fees on time, and always consult with a professional if you're unsure about any aspect of the application process.