I arrived in Georgia from Saudi Arabia about six weeks ago on a B1 business visa to attend meetings and explore potential partnerships. My original plan was to leave after a few weeks, but the company I’m meeting with wants me to stay longer to finalize a contract. Can I extend my stay without leaving the U.S., and what’s the process?

Question

Lalita Chakraborty · Accepted Answer

You can apply for a B1 extension with USCIS before your current stay expires. File Form I-539 and provide proof of your ongoing business activities and financial support.

Nkosinathi Ndlovu · Answer

A B1 visitor can request more time by submitting Form I-539 while still in valid status. Include documents like your meeting schedule, company letters, and evidence you’ll return to Saudi Arabia.

Extensions are discretionary, so file early to avoid falling out of status.

Mahboubeh Mahboubeh · Answer

Yes, extensions are possible, but you must act quickly because processing can take weeks. Gather proof of your business purpose, updated travel plans, and financial ability to cover your stay. USCIS will also look for strong ties to Saudi Arabia to ensure you don’t plan to overstay. Filing before your I-94 expires keeps you in authorized stay while the application is pending.

Nasser Al-Mansour

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