Navigating the world of US immigration can feel like a maze, and understanding the specific forms and letters required is crucial. For many, this means needing an I 539 Sample Letter. This article aims to demystify the purpose and content of such a letter, providing you with the knowledge and examples you need to approach your application with confidence.
Understanding the I 539 Sample Letter: What You Need to Know
The I 539 form, officially titled "Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status," is used by non-US citizens who are currently in the United States in a temporary, nonimmigrant status and wish to extend their stay or change to a different nonimmigrant status. A well-crafted cover letter, often referred to as an I 539 Sample Letter, accompanies this form. This letter is your opportunity to provide a clear, concise, and compelling explanation for your request directly to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The importance of a strong I 539 Sample Letter cannot be overstated. It serves as an introduction to your application, highlighting key supporting documents and reiterating the specifics of your request. Without it, USCIS officers may have to sift through numerous documents to understand the core of your application. A good letter helps to:
- Clearly state the purpose of your application (extension or change of status).
- Summarize your current immigration status and the proposed new status or extension duration.
- Briefly explain the reasons for your request.
- List the enclosed supporting documents.
To ensure your I 539 Sample Letter is effective, consider the following:
| Key Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Clarity | Use straightforward language. Avoid jargon. |
| Completeness | Ensure all required information is present. |
| Accuracy | Double-check all dates, names, and application numbers. |
| Conciseness | Get straight to the point without unnecessary details. |
Example I 539 Sample Letter for Extending a Tourist Visa
Dear USCIS,
This letter is to accompany my Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status (Form I-539) for myself, [Your Full Name], A-Number: [Your A-Number, if applicable], and my dependent, [Dependent's Full Name], A-Number: [Dependent's A-Number, if applicable]. We are currently in the United States in B-2 tourist status and are requesting an extension of our stay.
My current authorized stay is set to expire on [Current Expiration Date]. We are requesting an extension of stay until [Requested New Expiration Date]. The reason for this request is [Briefly state reason, e.g., unforeseen family matters requiring our continued presence, a desire to complete our planned tourist itinerary which has been extended due to X, Y, Z reasons].
We have enclosed the following documents to support our application:
- Completed Form I-539 for both applicants.
- Copies of our passports, including the visa pages.
- Proof of sufficient funds to support our extended stay, such as bank statements.
- Our original I-94 Arrival/Departure Records.
- [Any other relevant supporting documents].
We are committed to maintaining our nonimmigrant status and intend to depart the United States on or before the requested new expiration date. Thank you for your time and consideration of our application.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Current US Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Example I 539 Sample Letter for Changing to a Student Visa
Dear USCIS,
Please accept this letter as a supplement to my Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status (Form I-539) for myself, [Your Full Name], A-Number: [Your A-Number, if applicable]. I am currently in the United States in [Your Current Nonimmigrant Status, e.g., B-2 tourist] status and wish to change my status to F-1 student.
My current authorized stay expires on [Current Expiration Date]. I have been accepted by [Name of University/Institution] to pursue a [Name of Degree/Program] in [Field of Study] commencing on [Program Start Date]. I am requesting a change of status to F-1 student to begin my academic program at the earliest possible date.
The following documents are enclosed to support my application:
- Completed Form I-539.
- My passport, including the relevant visa page.
- My original Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, issued by [Name of University/Institution].
- Proof of financial support for my studies and living expenses.
- My original I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
- [Any other relevant supporting documents].
I am eager to begin my education in the United States and will comply with all terms and conditions of my F-1 student status. Thank you for your review of my application. I look forward to a favourable decision.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Current US Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Example I 539 Sample Letter for Extending a Student Visa
Dear USCIS,
This letter accompanies my Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status (Form I-539) for myself, [Your Full Name], Student ID: [Your Student ID], and my dependent, [Dependent's Full Name], Student ID: [Dependent's Student ID]. I am currently in the United States in F-1 student status and am requesting an extension of my stay to complete my academic program.
My current authorized stay expires on [Current Expiration Date]. I require an extension until [Requested New Expiration Date] to successfully complete my [Name of Degree/Program] at [Name of University/Institution] due to [Briefly explain the need for extension, e.g., unforeseen academic delays, curriculum changes, necessary research projects].
To support this request, I have included:
- Completed Form I-539 for both applicants.
- My passport, including the relevant visa page.
- A new Form I-20 from [Name of University/Institution] recommending the extension and detailing the revised program completion date.
- A letter from my academic advisor at [Name of University/Institution] explaining the necessity of the extension.
- Proof of continued financial support.
- My original I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
I am dedicated to completing my studies and will adhere to all regulations associated with my F-1 status. Thank you for considering my application for an extension.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Current US Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Example I 539 Sample Letter for Changing from J-1 to F-1 Visa
Dear USCIS,
I am writing to submit my Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status (Form I-539) for myself, [Your Full Name], A-Number: [Your A-Number, if applicable]. I am currently in the United States in J-1 exchange visitor status and wish to change my status to F-1 student.
My J-1 program at [Name of Sponsoring Organization/University] concluded on [J-1 Program End Date]. I have been accepted by [Name of University/Institution] for a [Name of Degree/Program] in [Field of Study], with a program start date of [Program Start Date]. My current authorized stay as a J-1 visitor expires on [Current Expiration Date].
I am requesting a change of status to F-1 student so that I may pursue my academic goals without interruption. The following documents are enclosed:
- Completed Form I-539.
- My passport, including the J-1 visa page.
- My original Form I-20 from [Name of University/Institution].
- Proof of financial resources for my studies.
- My original I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
- [Any other relevant supporting documents].
I am eager to transition to my F-1 status and commence my academic studies. Thank you for your attention to my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Current US Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Example I 539 Sample Letter for Extending a Dependent Visa
Dear USCIS,
This letter serves as a cover for my Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status (Form I-539) for my dependent spouse, [Dependent Spouse's Full Name], A-Number: [Dependent Spouse's A-Number, if applicable]. The primary visa holder is [Primary Visa Holder's Full Name], A-Number: [Primary Visa Holder's A-Number, if applicable], who holds a [Primary Visa Holder's Visa Status, e.g., H-1B] status.
My current authorized stay, as a dependent of [Primary Visa Holder's Visa Status] status, is set to expire on [Current Expiration Date]. We are requesting an extension of my dependent status until [Requested New Expiration Date], to coincide with the primary visa holder's extended stay.
We have included the following documents in support of this application:
- Completed Form I-539.
- My passport, including the relevant visa page.
- Proof of our marital relationship (e.g., marriage certificate).
- The primary visa holder's supporting documentation, including their most recent approval notice and I-94.
- [Any other relevant supporting documents].
We are grateful for the opportunity to reside in the United States and assure you that we will continue to comply with all immigration laws and regulations. Thank you for processing our request.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Current US Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
In conclusion, a comprehensive and accurately drafted I 539 Sample Letter is an invaluable asset when applying to extend or change your nonimmigrant status in the United States. By clearly outlining your request, providing essential details, and listing supporting documentation, you significantly enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your application. Remember to tailor your letter to your specific circumstances and always ensure all information is truthful and consistent with your supporting evidence.