USCIS Policy update: Biometric fees for all I-539 applicants are exempted

Since Oct 1, 2023, USCIS has exempted the $85 biometric fees for all I-539 applicants. Therefore, the filing fee for an I-539 is only $370.

I-539 is a form used for:

• Certain nonimmigrants extending their stay or changing to another nonimmigrant status, such as:

  • an extension/change of B-1 or B-2,

  • dependents of a Principal E Nonimmigrant- E-1 Treaty Traders and their E-1 employees, E-2 Treaty Investors and their E-2 employees, E-2 CNMI Investors, and E-3 Australian Specialty Occupation Professionals,

  • a change to or extension of F-1 status, or apply for reinstatement to F-1 status,

  • an extension/change of status as the dependent of an H temporary worker,

  • change of employer or a change in the information medium for I status,

  • a change to or extension of J-1 status, or apply for reinstatement to J-1 status,

  • an extension/change of status as the dependent of an L intracompany transferee,

  • a change to or extension of M-1 status, or apply for reinstatement to M-1 status,

  • an extension/change of status as the dependent of an O nonimmigrant worker,

  • an extension/change of status as the dependent of a P nonimmigrant worker,

  • an extension/change of status as the dependent of an R religious worker,

  • an extension/change of status as the dependent of a TN professional worker,

  • an extension of status as a T or U nonimmigrant based on law enforcement needs, and

  • request initial status, a change to or extension of V status.