Learn about the forms and the process to follow to extend your legal stay in the United States and you are visiting.
If you or a family member are planning to visit the United States, you should know the forms that indicate the time you can stay in the United States.
If you arrive at your destination by land when crossing an international bridge between Mexico and the United States, you must have previously filled out form I-94 or I-94W, the document that indicates the time you can stay in the country as a visitor. This is a United States entry and exit registration card, used by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and which also proves that you are a legal visitor.
To request an extension to your stay, you must fill out a additional form, I-102, and submit a letter in English detailing the reasons for requesting an extension. If there are several members of your family traveling, it is only necessary to fill out one form. However, there are other requirements for requesting the extension, such as:
- Have a valid passport for the time you request to stay in the United States.
- Not having reasons that force you to leave the country.
- Not having committed crimes that take away your immigration benefits.
On the other hand, if you came to the United States by plane or boat and want to request an extension, you need to fill out Form I-539. This has a cost of 370 dollars and an additional 85 for the use of biometric services.
Generally, permits of this type have a duration of 5 to 7 months. However, you must resubmit your application 45 days before your deadline to stay in the country.
