The USCIS has announced that they are expanding the premium processing option for applicants filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status who are seeking to change their nonimmigrant status to F, M or J. Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, will also have an online filing option for this expansion.
What is Premium Processing?
Premium processing is an option offered by the USCIS when filing certain forms which guarantees that the USCIS will take one of several possible actions (issue approval notice, denial notice, notice of intent to deny, or request for evidence) within a specific timeframe. The length of the timeframe depends upon the form filed, but is much faster than standard processing. Premium processing does come with a hefty fee, which is required to be paid when you file your request for premium processing. The premium processing fee also depends on the form filed, but ranges from $1,500 to $2,500.
New Premium Processing for Change of Status to F, M, and J
This new premium processing addition will apply to certain Form I-539 applications in phases. The dates of the expansion are as follows:
June 13, 2023 – Applicants seeking a change of status to F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2, J-1, or J-2 status will be able to file Form I-907 with the USCIS if they already have a pending Form I-539.
June 26, 2023 – USCIS will accept Form I-907 requests for applicants seeking to change their nonimmigrant status to F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2, J-1, or J-2 status when filed together with Form I-539.
Premium processing for Form I-539 applicants requesting a change of status to F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2, J-1, or J-2 nonimmigrant status, once all prerequisites, including receipt of biometrics, have been met will be 30 calendar days.
The cost for this premium processing service is $1,750.
This particular phase of premium processing expansion will only be available for change of status requests. This does not apply to those who are looking to extend/stay in M-1 or M-2 status.
Note
Premium processing requests for a pending Form I-539 will be rejected if it is received before June 13. Additionally, you will be rejected if you file your Form I-539 and Form I-907 together before June 26,
In order for premium processing to begin, applicants must submit their biometrics. That means that even if the USCIS accepts your Form I-907 and you paid your fees, the premium processing time does not start running until you have submitted biometrics.
The USCIS continues to expand premium processing options in order to help increase efficiency in visa processing. To read more about the latest premium processing expansion, visit the USCIS website.
