Need info. pls -- visitor visa stamp extention

[htamane]

Hi,

Does anyone know if it is possible to extend a visitor visa "beyond" the stamp date? My mom (who has a 10 yr multiple entry visa) arrived yesterday, her intended stay being 4.5 months. She showed her return ticket as well. However, she only got a 3-month stamp. This was very surprising because this is her 5th trip here and she has always received a 6-month stamp.
Any thoughts on how we could get her stamp date extended by 1.5 months? Is there a procedure/form, etc. for this? Also, when should I file for the extention? If we don't receive INS' reply before her 3 months are over, can she legally stay until the response arrives?
Thanks in advance for your help!
Himanshu

[indous]

yes, it is possible to apply for extension. By filing form I-539. I am going through the same process for my mom, she also got 3 months stamp at Newark Airport. (She also had 6 month stamp in previous trip)

I am trying to figure out what would be best time to file (and if you wish, you can refer to my query trail with subject line "Question regarding visitor visa extension")

[htamane]

Thanks for your reply. It seems (from this forum and other sites) that about 1 month to 1.5 months before the expiration of 3 months is probably a good time to file for extention..