B1 visa -extension/revisit

[ras305]

Hi guys,

I am back with another question. I have a 10 year multiple entry B1 visa. I entered US on October 3 2008 and My return date has been stamped as Jan 3 2009(3 months). Now, my client asked me if I can extend my stay for another 3 months.

1.) Is there a way I can extend my stay for another 2 - 3 months(till Feb -March 2009). My valid stay ends on Jan 3 2009?
2.) If I can't extend my stay, can I go out of US and then comeback in a few days? If yes, how long should be the gap between the visits?

I will be greatful if someone can provide me the info..

thanks in aticipation.

[knowledgeable]

B1 extension ->

Extension of Stay

You may extend your stay in B1 status by a maximum of six months provided the b1 visa extension request is due to "an unexpected or compelling humanitarian reasons" such as medical treatment or unforeseen delay in conclusion of a business matter.

You must file the b1 visa extension request using Form I-539 and prove that you have adequate financial resources to continue staying in the U.S. and that you are maintaining residency abroad.

[ras305]

How long does it take for them to process

hi knowledgeable,

Thanks a lot for the information. How long does it take for them to prcess my application for extenstion? I have around 34 days left for my I94 to expire, do you think I can get a reply (either yes or no) before my I94 expires?

Thanks again for the inforamtion.

[JStone]

Extension decision generally takes long time from several weeks to months.

If you don't hear a decision before the expiry of your I -94, you will be in trouble. Because if your I 94 has expired and the extension decision is a denial, you will be out of status and must leave the country ASAP. This will also create more problems during your future visits.

[drharvinder]

Please answer:

how long should be the gap between the visits?
Can we return back in 2-3 week (because extension is risky thing)

Thanks

[JStone]

You should spend more time in the home country than the time you spend during your B1/B2 trips. If you are visiting US frequently, you will get your I 94 only for a shorter duration and also you will be questioned strictly at the port of entry.