88 i 539 Cover Letter Sample Guide for Your Application

Navigating the world of immigration forms can feel like a puzzle, and for many, the I-539 form is a crucial piece. Whether you're extending your stay or changing your status in the United States, a well-crafted cover letter can make a big difference. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about a strong i 539 cover letter sample, helping you present your case clearly and effectively.

Understanding the Importance of Your I-539 Cover Letter

When you submit your Form I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, you're asking U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to consider your request. While the form itself asks for specific information, a cover letter acts as your personal introduction to your application. It's your chance to explain the situation in your own words and highlight why you qualify for the extension or change of status you're seeking. The importance of a clear and concise cover letter cannot be overstated; it can help an officer quickly understand your request and supporting documentation.

Think of it like this: the I-539 form is the fill-in-the-blank section, and the cover letter is the essay. It allows you to add context that might not fit neatly into the form's boxes. You can use it to:

  • Briefly introduce yourself and the purpose of your application.
  • Explain any unusual circumstances or specific details related to your request.
  • Summarize the supporting documents you are submitting.

Here's a breakdown of what USCIS generally looks for:

Key Element What to Include
Clarity Make sure your request is easy to understand.
Completeness Address all necessary information without leaving gaps.
Accuracy Double-check all dates, names, and details.
Supporting Evidence Mention the documents that back up your claims.

I 539 Cover Letter Sample for Tourist Visa Extension

  1. Dear USCIS Officer,
  2. I am writing to respectfully request an extension of my tourist visa (B-2).
  3. My current visa is set to expire on [Date].
  4. I arrived in the United States on [Date of Arrival].
  5. My passport number is [Passport Number].
  6. My A-Number (if applicable) is [A-Number].
  7. I am requesting an extension until [New Requested End Date].
  8. The reason for my extension request is [State your reason clearly, e.g., to visit family, attend a wedding, recover from illness].
  9. I have sufficient funds to support my stay.
  10. I have enclosed bank statements as proof of financial support.
  11. I have maintained my legal status in the U.S.
  12. I have not engaged in any unauthorized employment.
  13. I am aware of the terms and conditions of my B-2 visa.
  14. I have attached a copy of my current I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
  15. I have also attached copies of my passport, including the biographical page and visa page.
  16. I have included letters from my family members confirming their support and my accommodation.
  17. I intend to depart the U.S. on or before my new requested end date.
  18. I appreciate your time and consideration of my application.
  19. Sincerely,
  20. [Your Full Name]

I 539 Cover Letter Sample for F-1 Student Visa Change of Status

  1. To the Esteemed Officers of USCIS,
  2. I am writing to request a change of status from [Current Status, e.g., B-2 Visitor] to F-1 student status.
  3. My current visa expires on [Current Visa Expiration Date].
  4. I have been accepted into the [Program Name] program at [University Name].
  5. My program start date is [Program Start Date].
  6. I plan to complete my studies by [Program End Date].
  7. My I-20 form, issued by [University Name], is included with this application.
  8. I have the financial means to cover my tuition and living expenses.
  9. Proof of financial support, including bank statements and scholarship letters, is attached.
  10. I have maintained lawful presence in the United States throughout my stay.
  11. I have no intention of engaging in unauthorized employment.
  12. My passport number is [Passport Number].
  13. My SEVIS ID is [SEVIS ID].
  14. I have enclosed a copy of my I-94 record.
  15. I have also included my previous visa stamps and entry stamps in my passport.
  16. I am eager to begin my academic journey in the United States.
  17. I kindly request that you approve my change of status to F-1 student.
  18. Thank you for your dedicated service.
  19. Respectfully,
  20. [Your Full Name]

I 539 Cover Letter Sample for J-2 Dependent Visa Extension

  1. Dear USCIS Service Center,
  2. I am the spouse/child of [Principal Exchange Visitor's Name], who is currently in the U.S. on a J-1 visa.
  3. I am writing to request an extension of my J-2 dependent status.
  4. My current J-2 status is valid until [Current J-2 Expiration Date].
  5. I wish to extend my stay until [New Requested End Date], to remain with my spouse/parent.
  6. My DS-2019 form from my sponsoring institution, [Sponsoring Institution Name], is attached.
  7. My spouse/parent's SEVIS ID is [J-1 SEVIS ID].
  8. My passport number is [Your Passport Number].
  9. I have maintained my dependent status and have not engaged in unauthorized employment.
  10. I am financially dependent on my spouse/parent.
  11. Proof of financial support from my spouse/parent is included.
  12. I have enclosed a copy of my I-94 record.
  13. I have also included a copy of my spouse/parent's current DS-2019 and visa.
  14. I understand the conditions of my J-2 status.
  15. I appreciate your careful review of my request.
  16. My dependent SEVIS ID is [Your J-2 SEVIS ID].
  17. I am committed to abiding by all U.S. immigration laws.
  18. Thank you for your consideration.
  19. Sincerely,
  20. [Your Full Name]

I 539 Cover Letter Sample for Dependent Parent of H-4 Visa Holder

  1. To the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services,
  2. I am writing to apply for an extension of my dependent visa status (H-4).
  3. I am the parent of [H-4 Visa Holder's Name], who is currently residing in the U.S. under H-4 status.
  4. My current H-4 status is valid until [Current H-4 Expiration Date].
  5. I am requesting an extension until [New Requested End Date].
  6. My H-4 dependent is the child of [Principal H-1B Holder's Name], who holds an H-1B visa.
  7. My child's visa and I-94 record are attached for your reference.
  8. I have maintained my lawful status in the United States.
  9. I am not employed in the U.S. and am financially supported by my child's family.
  10. Proof of financial support from my child's family is enclosed.
  11. My passport number is [Your Passport Number].
  12. I have included a copy of my I-94 record.
  13. I have also attached a copy of my child's I-797 Approval Notice for their H-4 status.
  14. I intend to depart the U.S. at the end of my approved stay.
  15. Thank you for considering my application.
  16. My A-Number (if applicable) is [A-Number].
  17. I wish to remain with my family for the extended period.
  18. Sincerely,
  19. [Your Full Name]

I 539 Cover Letter Sample for Business Visitor (B-1) to Attend Conference

  1. Dear USCIS Officer,
  2. I am writing to request an extension of my B-1 visitor status to attend the [Conference Name] conference.
  3. My current B-1 status is valid until [Current B-1 Expiration Date].
  4. I arrived in the United States on [Date of Arrival].
  5. The conference will be held from [Conference Start Date] to [Conference End Date].
  6. I need an extension until [New Requested End Date] to attend the full duration of the conference and related business meetings.
  7. My passport number is [Passport Number].
  8. I have enclosed a copy of my passport and visa.
  9. I have attached a copy of my I-94 record.
  10. I have also included the invitation letter and registration confirmation for the [Conference Name] conference.
  11. My company, [Your Company Name], is sponsoring my attendance.
  12. I have sufficient funds to cover my expenses during this extended period.
  13. Proof of financial support from my company is attached.
  14. I am not seeking employment in the United States.
  15. I will depart the U.S. immediately after the conference concludes.
  16. I have no intention of overstaying my visa.
  17. Thank you for your understanding and approval.
  18. Sincerely,
  19. [Your Full Name]

Putting together your Form I-539 application is a significant step, and a thoughtfully written cover letter is a powerful tool in your arsenal. By clearly stating your purpose, providing necessary details, and referencing your supporting documents, you can help USCIS process your request efficiently and favorably. Remember to always review the latest USCIS guidelines and tailor your cover letter to your specific situation. Good luck!

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