Language : 
Book a Free Consultation
(410) 995-1515
Available 24/7 Free Consultation
(410) 995-1515

Richmond, Virginia Immigration Lawyers

Visa Applications, Status Changes & More

When you enter the United States by using a nonimmigrant or temporary visa, it is usually for a short-term reason, such as visiting the country for tourism. However, you may later wish to change the purpose of your stay to another type of nonimmigrant visa category. For example, if you entered the U.S. to visit family but decided you would like to go to university without leaving the U.S., you would need to submit an application to change your status from a tourist (B-2 visa) to student status (F-1).

If this legal process seems like more than you are prepared to handle, then you should not try to go through it on your own. Instead, team up with our Richmond immigration lawyers from Portner & Shure, P.A. We can help you file a change of status application, as well as for initial immigration applications.

Call today to see how we can help with your immigration case.

How to Change Your Visa Status

To be eligible for an immigration status change, you must meet these requirements:

  • You were lawfully admitted into the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa.
  • The type of nonimmigrant visa you entered on is still valid and has not expired.
  • You have not done anything to violate the conditions of your status. For example, you cannot change your status if you overstayed the time you were originally allowed to stay on your nonimmigrant visa.

Also, keep in mind that not all nonimmigrant visas can change status. It can take several months before you receive a final decision on your application. While you can lawfully remain in the U.S. while your application is pending, you cannot change your activity in the U.S. until you receive an approval. For example, you cannot start going to school or working for a specific employer until the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approves your case.

Reach Out to Us When You Want to Know More

If you think you eligible to change status or have questions about the application process, please contact our office. Our Richmond immigration lawyers can assess your case, aid you with the process, and ensure you provide all necessary documents to set your case or application up for approval.

To learn more about the change of status application process or the other immigration services our firm offers, call now.
Send Us Your Case Details
We’ll respond and let you know the best way to proceed with your case.

Cases We Handle in Virginia

Contact Us

Expect More with
Portner & Shure

The legal system can be intimidating, but you deserve more. Expect more guidance, more dedication, and more results from our experienced trial attorneys every step of the way.

Free Confidential Consultation:
(410) 995-1515
Columbia Office
7226 Lee DeForest Dr,
Suite 100,
Columbia, MD 21046
Map & Directions
Bel Air Office
3 Vale Road,
Suite 100,
Bel Air, MD 21014
Map & Directions
Frederick Office
5216 Chairmans Court,
Suite 106,
Frederick, MD 21703
Map & Directions
Glen Burnie Office
7310 Ritchie Hwy,
#409,
Glen Burnie, MD 21601
Map & Directions
Richmond Office
9100 Arboretum Parkway,
Suite 270,
Richmond, VA 23236
Map & Directions
North Carolina Office
421 Fayetteville St,
#1100,
Raleigh, NC 27601
Map & Directions
Salisbury Office
100 E. Main Street,
Suite 503,
Salisbury, MD 21801
Map & Directions
Silver Spring Office
8455 Colesville Road,
Suite 720,
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Map & Directions
Vienna Office
8229 Boone Boulevard,
Suite 100,
Vienna, VA 22182
Map & Directions
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute client relationship.
uploadmagnifiercross