BREAKING NEWS: #USCIS Announces Options for #Nonimmigrants in U.S. Who May Not Be Able to Leave Due to #Coronavirus #COVID19
Extensions of Stay/ Change of Status Filing Delays Caused by Circumstances Related to COVID-19
BREAKING NEWS: #COVID-19 & #USCIS
USCIS has announced guidance for nonimmigrants in the U.S. who are having difficulty departing the country before their authorized period of stay expires.
First, as a general note, all nonimmigrants are required to depart the country before their authorized stay expires. The coronavirus pandemic, however, has presented USCIS with an unprecedented situation, and they are now recognizing that it may be impossible for some nonimmigrants to depart the country in time.
Here are some helpful tips if you find yourself in this situation:
If possible, file for an extension/ change of status BEFORE your period of authorized stay expires;
Filing a timely non-frivolous extension/ change of status will prevent the accrual of unlawful presence and, your employment authorization may be automatically extended for 240 days (where applicable);
USCIS will also consider late applications for changes and extensions of stay if the delay was caused by COVID-19. If you are in this situation, you must provide evidence that the reason your application was untimely was due to circumstances beyond your control, and you must file as soon as possible, and;
Although Visa Waiver Program (VWP) entrants are not eligible to extend or change their status, VWP entrants can apply for a 30-day "satisfactory departure” because of COVID-19 related issues. If you are unable to depart within those 30-days, you can request an additional 30-day period to satisfactory depart from USCIS.
Click here to read the full announcement from USCIS.
If you need helping filing for an extension or change of status or if you have any questions about how the coronavirus may impact your immigration status, contact the experienced immigration attorneys at The Shapiro Law Firm today! We are open for business and available via phone, email, text and video chat!
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