Extension?

[jannied]

I have recently applied for a further 3 month extension of stay. I submitted the original I-94 form which expires at the end of nov 2007. I understand that I can stay until I receive a response which according to the California Service Center is in January. Am I able to leave prior to receiving a response and after november (which is when my I-94 expires) without affecting future visits?
And what happens if I leave without my original I-94? I have copies though.
please help.

[PraetorianXI]

Yes, you can leave without knowing the result of your extension.

Give a copy of the I-94 to the airline personnel and keep copies of your boarding passes as you leave the USA and bring them with you next time you come to the US.

[jannied]

thanks!...also

Thanks for that!
So for clarification, if I wanted to leave in say December, I can do so, without trouble in the future? as long as I have my copy of the I-94 (stating 30 nov) , the boarding pass and perhaps the receipt for the submission of extension?

[PraetorianXI]

No no no...

You must leave BEFORE the I-94 expires. Not after unless you stay to wait for the extension (and it is approved).

You can not stay PAST the I-94, that would void your visa automatically or in the event of the extension, it is subject to it being canceled next time you come to the USA.

[orion]

Agree with PraetorianXI. Applying for extension, in my opinion, for a visitors visa puts the visa in jeopardy. You mail in your original I94 and then you come know that if its denied, and you have stayed past I94 deadline then your visa is void (big price to pay for application of extension), and then you just have a copy of I94 to leave at the airport when you leave, which itself sounds like a little off. NO, I would not want to go there, to start with. It is HIGHLY NOT RECOMMENDED to apply for extension of visitors visa unless you have a compelling reason.