A “Letter To Request Extension Of Stay In The U.S.” is a formal letter. You write it to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It asks them to let you stay in the U.S. longer than your visa allows. You might need this letter if you have a valid reason to extend your visit. Maybe you have a medical emergency. Or perhaps you have important business to finish.
Writing this letter can be tricky. You need to be clear and persuasive. You must state why you need to stay longer. You also need to show that you plan to follow all the rules.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help! We’ll share some templates and examples. Use these samples to write your own letter. Make the process easier!
Letter To Request Extension Of Stay In The U.S.
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
[USCIS City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Request for Extension of Stay – [Your Name], [Your Date of Birth]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an extension of my stay in the United States. I am currently in the U.S. on a [Visa Type] visa, which is valid until [Current Visa Expiration Date]. My [Passport Number] passport, issued by [Issuing Country], expires on [Passport Expiration Date].
I arrived in the United States on [Date of Arrival] at [Port of Entry]. I have adhered to the terms of my visa and have not violated any U.S. immigration laws.
I am requesting an extension of my stay until [Proposed Extension Date] for the following reason: [Clearly explain the reason for your requested extension. Be specific and provide details. For example: to complete a course of study, to receive medical treatment, to continue a specific project, or for personal reasons. If for personal reasons, elaborate further].
I have sufficient funds to support myself during this extended stay and will not seek employment in the United States. I have attached copies of [Bank Statements] and [Other Financial Documents] as evidence of my ability to financially support myself.
I have also attached copies of the following documents in support of this request:
- Copy of my passport
- Copy of my visa
- Copy of my I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- [Any other relevant documents, such as medical records, letters of support, etc.]
I understand that the decision to grant an extension of stay is at your discretion. I assure you that I intend to comply with all U.S. immigration laws and will depart the United States on or before [Proposed Extension Date].
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your favorable response.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Letter To Request Extension Of Stay In The U.S.
Subject Line: Brevity is Key
Your subject line should be laconic and immediately convey the purpose of your missive. Avoid ambiguity.
Consider:
- Extension of Stay Request – [Your Name] – [Your Visa Type]
- Request for I-94 Extension – [Your Passport Number]
Salutation: Etiquette Matters
Begin with a formal salutation. While you may never meet the adjudicating officer, remember this is a formal
request.
- “Dear USCIS Officer,” is a safe and respectful choice.
- If you somehow know the officer’s name (unlikely), use “Dear Mr./Ms. [Officer’s Last Name],”
Introduction: Setting the Stage
The introductory paragraph should succinctly state who you are, your current visa status, and your reason for
requesting an extension. It should immediately signal the pertinence of the letter.
- “I am [Your Name], a citizen of [Your Country] currently residing in the United States under a [Visa Type]
visa, I-94 number [Your I-94 Number], which expires on [Expiration Date].” - “I am writing to formally request an extension of my stay to allow me to [briefly state reason, e.g., complete
a research project, receive medical treatment, etc.].”
Body Paragraphs: Substantiation and Elaboration
This section is the crux of your request. Meticulously articulate the reasons necessitating the extension. Offer
corroborating evidence where applicable.
- Elaborate on the reason: Provide a detailed explanation. For example, if you’re receiving medical
treatment, include a letter from your doctor outlining the treatment plan and estimated duration. - Financial Resources: Assert your ability to financially support yourself during the extended stay.
Include bank statements, affidavits of support, or any documentation demonstrating fiscal solvency. - Ties to Home Country: Emphasize your intention to return to your home country upon the approved
extension. Include evidence such as property ownership, job offers, or family obligations.
Supporting Documentation: Bolstering Your Claim
List all documents you’re including to buttress your application. Transparency is paramount.
- “Please find enclosed the following documents in support of my request:”
- Then, create a bulleted or numbered list of each document (e.g., Copy of I-94, Bank Statements, Doctor’s
Letter, etc.).
Conclusion: Reiterating Your Plea
Reiterate your request for an extension and express your gratitude for their consideration. Maintain a polite and
deferential tone.
- “Therefore, I respectfully request an extension of my stay in the United States until [Proposed New End Date]. I
assure you that I will abide by all United States laws and regulations during my stay.” - “Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter. I eagerly await your response.”
Closing: Formal Farewell
End with a professional closing. Avoid colloquialisms.
- “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” are appropriate choices.
- Followed by your full name and signature (if submitting a physical letter). If submitting digitally, a typed name
is sufficient.
Frequently Asked Questions: Requesting an Extension of Stay in the U.S.
This section provides answers to common questions regarding the process of requesting an extension of your permitted stay in the United States. It is essential to review official USCIS guidelines for detailed requirements and eligibility criteria.
What is a ‘Request for Extension of Stay’?
A Request for Extension of Stay is an application submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to prolong your authorized temporary stay in the United States beyond the initial period granted.
Who is eligible to apply for an extension?
Generally, nonimmigrant visa holders who have maintained their status and have not violated the terms of their visa may be eligible. It is critical to apply before your authorized stay expires.
How do I apply for an extension of stay?
You must file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with USCIS. The filing instructions and required supporting documentation are available on the USCIS website.
What happens if my application is denied?
If your application is denied, you are generally required to depart the United States immediately. Failure to do so may result in deportation proceedings and future inadmissibility.
How long can I extend my stay?
The extension period granted depends on your visa category and the specific circumstances. USCIS will determine the appropriate extension duration based on the justification provided in your application.
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