A Visa Extension Request Letter is a formal request. It asks for more time on your Exchange Visitor Visa. You might need this letter if your program is extended. You also need it if there are unforeseen delays.
Need help writing this letter? You are in the right place. We will share templates to make it easy. These examples will help you write your own letter.
This article provides samples and templates. Use these to write the perfect extension request. We make the process simple for you. Let’s get started!
Visa Extension Request Letter For Exchange Visitor Visa
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Visa Office Address]
Subject: Request for Extension of Exchange Visitor Visa (J-1)
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to request an extension of my Exchange Visitor Visa (J-1). My current visa is due to expire on [Expiration Date].
I am participating in an exchange program at [Name of Institution] as a [Your Role]. My program focuses on [Briefly Describe Program].
My program is scheduled to continue until [Proposed New End Date]. The extension is necessary for me to complete [Specific Reason for Extension, e.g., my research project, my training program].
I have attached the following documents to support my request:
- A copy of my current visa.
- A copy of my DS-2019 form.
- A letter from [Name of Institution] supporting my extension request.
- Proof of funding for the extension period.
I am committed to fully complying with the terms of my visa and the regulations of the U.S. Department of State. I would be grateful if you would consider my request favorably.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write a Visa Extension Request Letter for Exchange Visitor Visa
Subject: Clearly State Your Intent
The subject line is paramount; it should immediately alert visa officials to the letter’s purpose. Use a concise, unambiguous phrase such as:
- “Request for J-1 Visa Extension – [Your Full Name]”
- “J-1 Visa Extension Application – [Your Case/SEVIS ID]”
- “Extension of Stay Request – J-1 Exchange Visitor Program”
Judicious phrasing prevents it from languishing in bureaucratic purgatory.
Salutation: Address Appropriately
While pinpointing a specific official isn’t always feasible, a formal salutation is de rigueur. Opt for:
- “To Whom It May Concern:”
- “Dear Visa Officer:”
- “Esteemed Immigration Official:”
Avoid casual greetings; gravitas is key here.
Introduction: Briefly Outline Your Situation
The introduction is your opportunity to succinctly frame your request. Include:
- Your full name, date of birth, and country of citizenship.
- Your J-1 visa number and SEVIS ID.
- A clear statement declaring your intention to extend your J-1 visa.
- A concise explanation of your current activity or program.
- Mention the originally approved program end date and desired extension duration.
Brevity is the soul of wit, and also an advantage here.
Body Paragraphs: Justify Your Request
This section comprises the crux of your appeal. Articulate cogent reasons for the extension:
- Elaborate on the remaining objectives of your exchange program or research.
- Detail any unforeseen exigencies that impeded earlier completion.
- Provide substantiating documentation, like letters from your program sponsor or advisor, underscoring the program’s continued benefit to you and potentially to your home country.
- Explain how the extension aligns organically with the original program’s goals, avoiding any perceived mission creep.
- Reiterate your commitment to abiding by all J-1 visa regulations and your intention to depart the U.S. upon program conclusion.
Ensure each claim is fortified with evidence, augmenting your credibility.
Financial Resources: Affirm Self-Sufficiency
Demonstrate continued financial viability for the extension period:
- Explicitly state the source of your funding (personal, institutional, governmental).
- Provide concrete numbers detailing available funds for living expenses, healthcare, and miscellaneous costs.
- If applicable, include bank statements, scholarship award letters, or affidavits of support.
Transparency regarding financial resources is non-negotiable.
Supporting Documents: Enumerate and Attach
Itemize all appended documents:
- Copy of your current J-1 visa and I-94 form.
- Copy of your DS-2019 form.
- Letter of support from your program sponsor or academic advisor.
- Financial documentation (bank statements, funding letters).
- Any other relevant supporting documentation (e.g., progress reports, publications).
A well-organized compendium projects meticulousness.
Closing: Express Gratitude and Reiterate
Conclude with grace and finality:
- Express sincere appreciation for their attention.
- Reiterate your earnest request for visa extension.
- Provide your contact information (email and phone number).
- Close with a formal valediction, such as “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” followed by your full name and signature (if submitting a physical copy).
End on a note of confident humility.
Frequently Asked Questions: Visa Extension Request Letter for Exchange Visitor Visa
This section addresses common inquiries concerning the preparation and submission of a visa extension request letter for individuals holding an Exchange Visitor Visa (J-1 visa).
It aims to provide clarity and guidance on the essential aspects of this process.
1. What is the purpose of a visa extension request letter?
The primary purpose of a visa extension request letter is to formally request permission from the relevant authorities to extend an individual’s stay beyond the initially authorized period, as stipulated in their Exchange Visitor Visa.
2. When should I submit the visa extension request letter?
The visa extension request letter, along with all supporting documentation, should be submitted well in advance of the current visa’s expiration date. It’s recommended to initiate the process at least 60-90 days prior to the expiration date to allow ample processing time.
3. What key information should be included in the letter?
The letter should include the applicant’s full name, date of birth, passport number, visa number, current visa expiration date, the reason for the extension request, the proposed new end date, a detailed explanation of how the applicant continues to meet the eligibility requirements for the Exchange Visitor Visa, and contact information.
4. Who should write the visa extension request letter?
Typically, the Exchange Visitor (J-1 visa holder) or their sponsoring organization’s Responsible Officer (RO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) will write the extension request letter. In some cases, both may collaborate on the letter.
5. Where should I submit the visa extension request letter?
The submission process and location will depend on the specific circumstances and the guidelines provided by the relevant immigration authorities, such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Consult the USCIS website for the most up-to-date instructions.
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