B2 Visa Extension WHILE in the US

[froyo 2]

Hi, guys!! Has anyone with a B2 (tourist) visa tried extending their stay here in the US? I am aware that if you want to, you can file and send the form to USCIS. Any stories that you could share?

 

Thank you!

[milimelo 4,481]

Why do you need extension? 

[froyo 2]

6 hours ago, milimelo said:

Why do you need extension? 

It's for my Mom. I read that "taking care of grandchildren" is not really a valid reason but we are in a tricky situation right now and we will really need her help. She is currently here with a tourist visa.

[EmilyW 1,437]

You're right, it's not a valid reason.  Besides 'taking care of children' is considered work a USC should be doing so she's already breached her tourist visa conditions.  How are you going to explain that in any application for an extension?  

[froyo 2]

2 minutes ago, EmilyW said:

You're right, it's not a valid reason.  Besides 'taking care of children' is considered work a USC should be doing so she's already breached her tourist visa conditions.  How are you going to explain that in any application for an extension?  

Okay thanks! My sister was granted a b2 extension last year but I just feel like I want to know more before we take our chance.

[az2014 381]

43 minutes ago, froyo said:

Okay thanks! My sister was granted a b2 extension last year but I just feel like I want to know more before we take our chance.

Go for it.

 

Make sure you mention looking after kids as the reason for your extension request.

[froyo 2]

13 minutes ago, az2014 said:

Go for it.

 

Make sure you mention looking after kids as the reason for your extension request.

Thank you!! do you have any experience or stories that you've heard before related to this? 

[EmilyW 1,437]

I think @az2014 is pulling your leg because what your mom is doing right now is in breach of her tourist visa.  You're in a hard spot.  Tell the truth and the extension may be denied.  Lie and - well - you've lied to immigration to gain a benefit, which could lead to a ban down the track.

[froyo 2]

1 minute ago, EmilyW said:

I think @az2014 is pulling your leg because what your mom is doing right now is in breach of her tourist visa.  You're in a hard spot.  Tell the truth and the extension may be denied.  Lie and - well - you've lied to immigration to gain a benefit, which could lead to a ban down the track.

We are aware that it is a risk to apply for an extension, but we would rather try and get denied than not try at all. I know we are in a hard spot. That's why I posted here to at least get the courage to move forward without being judged that we will lie our way into getting an extension -- but it seems like every time people ask questions like this, other users assume negative things right away. 

[canadian_wife 1,822]

If you believe you have a valid reason for an extension then try for one

 

One major drawback is if the extension is denied and your mother accrues unlawful presence, her B visa will likely be cancelled and she will not be able to return to the United States without a new one.  Then she'll have to explain why she overstayed and why she was 'working' in the U.S.

 

good luck 

[Boiler 45,525]

On 7/15/2017 at 8:44 AM, froyo said:

We are aware that it is a risk to apply for an extension, but we would rather try and get denied than not try at all. I know we are in a hard spot. That's why I posted here to at least get the courage to move forward without being judged that we will lie our way into getting an extension -- but it seems like every time people ask questions like this, other users assume negative things right away. 

No assumption, just what you said.

 

If she has no plans to return anytime soon I see no downside.

[Coco8 1,042]

Everyone on VJ who has applied for the extension (when people were telling them not to do it), has not gotten the extension. 

 

It is almost impossible to get it unless you were in an accident or someone in your family has had a medical issue, etc. 

 

In addition to getting a 3 or 10 year ban if she stays longer than she should, applying for an extension could jeopardize the chances of getting another visitor visa.

Edited July 17, 2017 by Coco8

[Boiler 45,525]

Quite a few cases which I thought dubious have received an extension.

[froyo 2]

Thanks everyone!