Changing Your Nonimmigrant Status
Generally, the United States government divides non-native visitors into two categories, immigrants and nonimmigrants. Immigrants apply to stay in the U.S. on a permanent basis, while the term nonimmigrant applies to those who only come to America for a temporary amount of time. Sometimes, though, nonimmigrants may wish to change the purpose of their visit so that they can stay longer or for another reason.
When you want to change your nonimmigrant status, you must submit certain forms and documents through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, or USCIS. However, this paperwork can be confusing and difficult. To help you reach your goal of remaining in the U.S., you should contact a compassionate Orange County immigration lawyer from Garg & Associates, P.C. today at 949-540-6704.
Am I Eligible?
You are eligible to apply for a change in nonimmigrant status if:
- You were legally admitted into the U.S. with a nonimmigrant visa
- Your nonimmigrant visa is still valid
- You have not violated any conditions of your admittance
- You have not committed any crimes that would invalidate your visa
In some cases, such as with B-1 visas, you do not have to apply to change your nonimmigrant status if you wish to stay in the U.S. for pleasure reasons until your visa expires.
Who is Not Eligible?
There are several different nonimmigrant visas that cannot be changed to another status, including:
- Crew members (D nonimmigrant)
- In transit through the U.S. (C nonimmigrant)
- In transit without a visa
- Fiancé of a U.S. citizen (K nonimmigrant)
- Informant for the U.S. government (S nonimmigrant)
If you are not eligible to change your visa status, you may have to return to your home country and reapply for another visa.
Contact Us
Immigration laws can be very complicated, especially for those who may not speak English. If you are looking to change your nonimmigrant status or come to the U.S. as an immigrant, you should enlist the help of a knowledgeable lawyer to help you with your case. Contact an Orange County immigration attorney from Garg & Associates, P.C. at 949-540-6704 today for more information.
