Arriving in West Virginia from Paraguay just last week has felt like a whirlwind of change—new people, new culture, and new rules I am still trying to understand. I came on a visitor visa to spend time with my cousin, but already I feel anxious about how quickly time can pass here and how short my stay might actually be. I don’t want to risk overstaying by accident or misunderstanding the rules. Could you explain how I should keep track of my allowed stay and what steps I can take if I want to extend it?

Question

Zubair Qureshi · Accepted Answer

Your stay length depends on the I-94 record you received when you entered, not just your visa stamp. You can check this online to confirm the exact expiration. Keeping a copy of your I-94 is essential

Sibongile Mthembu · Answer

If you need more time, you must apply for an extension with USCIS before your I-94 expires.

Kazuo Tanaka · Answer

Visitor visas are often given for up to six months, but the actual duration depends on what Customs and Border Protection approved at your entry.

It’s not automatic to extend your stay; you must show a valid reason, like visiting family or health-related issues, and prove you can support yourself financially.

Submitting the extension request early is very important. If you overstay, it can negatively affect future visa applications.

Florentín Domínguez

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