U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced the expansion of premium processing for Form I-539 applicants seeking a change of status to F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2, J-1, or J-2 nonimmigrant status. The expansion includes the option for online filing of Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service.
Important Dates:
- From June 13, USCIS will accept Form I-907 requests for applicants with a pending Form I-539, seeking a change of status.
- From June 26, USCIS will accept Form I-907 requests filed together with Form I-539 for change of status requests.
Premium processing is available only for change of status requests and is not applicable to M-1 or M-2 status extension requests.
It is crucial to submit Form I-907 the same way as Form I-539:
- If filing a paper Form I-539, submit a paper Form I-907.
- If submitting Form I-539 online, submit Form I-907 online.
Biometrics must be submitted before premium processing can begin. The premium processing time limit starts once the applicant and co-applicants on Form I-539 submit their biometrics. USCIS may reject Form I-907 and/or Form I-539 if submitted with another benefit request or multiple Form I-907 requests filed together.
To file Form I-907 online, applicants must create a USCIS online account, providing a secure method for form submission, fee payment, and status tracking. The USCIS online account offers additional features, including secure communication with USCIS and responding to Requests for Evidence online.
The expansion of premium processing aligns with USCIS’ goal to enhance efficiency and reduce burdens within the immigration system. The phased approach ensures compliance with the Emergency Stopgap USCIS Stabilization Act, preventing an increase in processing times for immigration benefit requests.
