Updated Form I-539 and New Form I-539A
USCIS issued an updated Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. The updated form will be accepted by USCIS starting March 11, 2019. USCIS will accept old forms through March 21, 2019. Starting March 22, 2019, USCIS will only accept the new form and reject any applications submitted in the old forms. Form I-539 is used by nonimmigrant visa holders to extend their stay in the US or to change their status while in the US.
In addition to the new form, it will now be required for every co-applicant on the primary applicant’s Form I-539 to submit and sign Form I-539A. Co-applicants include children and spouses of the primary applicant.
Applicants and co-applicants must also pay an $85.00 biometrics fee and attend a biometrics appointment.
Suspension of Visa Processing at U.S. Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela
The U.S. Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela, suspended the processing of all nonimmigrant and immigrant visa applications. The Department of State designated the U.S. Embassy in Bogota, Colombia, as the primary location for immigrant visa applications for residents of Venezuela. Beginning next month, nonimmigrant visa interviews for Venezuelan residents will be scheduled at the Bogota, Colombia, Embassy.
Nonimmigrant visa applications may be submitted at any consular posts outside of Venezuela.
DHS Extends TPS for South Sudan
Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. Nielsen announced her determination that an extension of the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for South Sudan is warranted pursuant to the Immigration and Nationality Act. Secretary Nielsen extended South Sudan’s TPS designation for 18 months. Current beneficiaries under South Sudan’s TPS designation will be eligible to re-register for an extension of their status for 18 months, through November 2, 2020.
This extension permits current beneficiaries under South Sudan’s TPS designation to re-register for TPS and remain in the U.S. with work authorization through November 2, 2020. To be eligible for TPS under South Sudan’s current designation, along with meeting the other eligibility requirements, individuals must have continuously resided in the U.S. since January 25, 2016, and have been continuously physically present since May 3, 2016
If you have questions about your immigration case here in Florida, it’s important to speak with an experienced immigration attorney to discuss your specific case and circumstances. Attorney Evelyn J. Pabon Figueroa is an Associate in the Orlando office of CPLS, P.A. She is a member of the firm’s Immigration Practice Groups. Contact Attorney Evelyn today at epabonfigueroa@cplspa.com to discuss any family or marital legal issues you may be experiencing.
