The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recognized that COVID-19 has created many immigration-related challenges. Due to the COVID-19 effects on immigration cases, our office visits have had to be stopped. However, our firm will continue working with clients through video calls or phone calls. As such, to communicate with us most effectively, we ask that you call our office to schedule a virtual consultation.
Generally, nonimmigrants must depart the United States before their authorized period of admission expires. However, nonimmigrants may unexpectedly remain in the United States beyond their authorized period of stay due to COVID-19. Should this occur, the following options are available for nonimmigrants:
Apply for an Extension Due to COVID-19
Most nonimmigrants can mitigate the consequences of the COVID-19 effects on immigration cases. This can be d by timely filing an application for extension of stay (EOS) or change in status (COS). U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services continues to accept and process applications and petitions, and many of our forms are available for online filing.
Flexibility for Late Applications
USCIS reminds petitioners and applicants that it can consider delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic when deciding whether to excuse delays in filing documents based on extraordinary circumstances.
Flexibility for Visa Waiver Entrants
Visa Waiver Program (VWP) entrants are not eligible to extend their stay or change status. However, under current regulations, if an emergency prevents the departure of a VWP entrant, USCIS may grant a period of satisfactory departure for up to 30 days. VWP entrants already granted satisfactory departure and unable to depart within this 30-day period because of COVID-19 related issues, can request that USCIS temporarily provide an additional 30-day period of satisfactory departure. To request satisfactory departure from USCIS, a VWP entrant should call the USCIS Contact Center.
