Individuals filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, now have the option to select premium processing when filing a change of status for F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2, J-1, or J-2 nonimmigrant status. These individuals may also file Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, online. The premium processing option is being expanded, with the below requirements.

The premium processing option is being rolled out in phases. Nonimmigrants who request premium processing should follow the below schedule:

  • Starting June 13, applicants filing a change of status to F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2, J-1, or J-2 status who also have a pending Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, can file Form I-907 via paper form or online.
  • Starting June 26, applicants filing both the change of status to F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2, J-1, or J-2 status and Form I-539, Application to Extend Change Nonimmigrant Status together can file Form I-907 via paper or online.

This phase is solely available for change of status requests. Individuals requesting an extension of stay in M-2 or M-2 status are not eligible for this phase.

If premium processing requests are submitted for a pending Form I-539 prior to June 13, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will reject those filings. Similarly, USCIS will reject premium processing filing submitted with a Form I-539 if received prior to June 26.

Individuals must submit Form I-907 and Form I-539 in the same manner, either via paper or online. Forms not filed in the same manner will be rejected.

Biometrics must be submitted before premium processing can begin for these categories. If USCIS accepts Form I-907 and the related fees, the time limit used to calculate premium processing does not start until the applicant and all co-applicants included on Form I-539 submit their biometric information. USCIS may reject Form I-907 and/or Form I-539 if submitted with other requests, including multiple Forms I-907 submitted together.

If you have questions about premium processing or any other immigration-related issue, contact us at ILBSG. We work with our clients in their particular situations to ensure they get the right advice.