The M-1 visa is designed for international students pursuing vocational or non-academic programs in the United States. Unlike F-1 students, M-1 visa holders have a fixed period of stay based on the duration of their program, plus any authorized practical training.
However, in some cases, students may need additional time to complete their studies. If you are an M-1 student and need to extend your stay, you must follow a specific process to request an extension. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to apply for an extension of stay in the U.S.
Understanding M-1 Visa Extensions
The M-1 visa initially allows students to stay in the U.S. for the length of their program, up to one year, with a possible extension for practical training. Extensions can be granted if students need more time to complete their coursework due to unforeseen circumstances. However, students must apply before their authorized stay expires.
Steps to Request an Extension of Stay
1. Confirm Eligibility
Before applying for an extension, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:
Your current M-1 visa status is valid.
You require additional time to complete your vocational program.
You have not violated the terms of your visa (e.g., unauthorized work or failure to attend classes).
You have proof of financial support for the extended period.
2. Contact Your Designated School Official (DSO)
Your Designated School Official (DSO) plays a crucial role in the extension process. You should:
Inform your DSO of your need for an extension.
Provide documentation showing the need for additional time.
Obtain an updated Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) with the recommended extension date.
3. Prepare and Submit Form I-539
To officially request an extension, you must complete and submit Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Here’s how:
Download Form I-539 from the USCIS website.
Fill out all required fields accurately.
Include the necessary supporting documents:
Updated Form I-20 from your DSO.
Copy of your current Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record).
Proof of financial ability to support yourself during the extension.
Explanation letter stating the reason for the extension.
Pay the required application fee (check the USCIS website for current fees).
4. Submit the Application
You can submit your Form I-539 and supporting documents either online (if eligible) or by mail to the USCIS address specified for M-1 extensions. Ensure you keep copies of all documents for your records.
5. Await USCIS Decision
Once your application is submitted:
USCIS will send a receipt notice confirming they received your request.
You may be required to attend a biometrics appointment.
Processing times vary, so check the USCIS website for updates on your case status.
If approved, you will receive a notice confirming the new authorized stay period.
Application should be received before 60 days
USCIS will deny any M-1 extension application received more than 60 days before and/or fewer than 15 days before the current program end date.
A complete application package includes:
- A properly completed Form I-539, “Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status.”
- Their updated Form I-20, indicating the extension of stay request in SEVIS.
- Applicable fee.
- Supporting documentation.
- M-1 students may only request extensions in one year maximum increments at a time.
- An M-1 student’s record is only eligible for an extension within a very specific time frame.
- The cumulative time of extensions that can be granted to an M-1 student is limited to a period of three years from the M-1 student’s original start date, plus 30 days.
- If an M-1 student needs more than one year to finish their program or any relevant PT, that student may work with their designated school official (DSO) to request an extension of stay