Extend or Reapply for a B1/B2 Visa (2025)

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A B1/B2 visa allows temporary visits to the United States for business or tourism. However, in some cases, travellers may need to stay longer than initially authorised or reapply after a previous visa has expired or been refused. This guide explains how to legally extend your stay or reapply for a B1/B2 visa under 2025 U.S. immigration regulations.

Extending Your Stay in the U.S.

B1/B2 visa holders may apply to extend their stay if their authorised period of admission (shown on Form I-94) has not yet expired.
Extensions are managed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Eligibility to Apply for an Extension

You may apply to extend your B1/B2 visa stay if:

• You entered the U.S. legally with a valid visa.
• Your current authorised stay has not yet expired.
• You have not violated visa conditions (e.g., by working or studying).
• You can provide a valid reason for needing extra time (e.g., medical treatment, delayed business, or flight disruption).
• You can demonstrate financial ability to support yourself during the extended stay.

How to Apply for a B1/B2 Visa Extension

To request an extension:

1. Complete Form I-539: Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status.
2. Pay the applicable filing fee ($370 plus biometrics fee, if required).
3. Submit supporting evidence — including your I-94 record, passport, proof of funds, and reason for extension.
4. File before your authorised stay expires (ideally at least 45 days in advance).

After Submitting Your Extension Request

If your application is accepted, USCIS may grant an additional stay of up to six months.
You must remain in the U.S. while the decision is pending. Leaving the country automatically withdraws your application.

Reapplying for a B1/B2 Visa

If your visa has expired or was refused, you can reapply at any time. The U.S. government does not impose a mandatory waiting period for reapplication, but you should only apply once you can address the reasons for the previous refusal.

When to Reapply

Reapply if:

• Your visa validity period has ended and you plan another short-term trip to the U.S.
• You were refused under Section 214(b) but have since strengthened your case with new documentation.
• You have a new purpose of travel supported by a clear itinerary and proof of funds.

How to Reapply

1. Complete a new DS-160 visa application form.
2. Pay the non-refundable MRV fee again.
3. Book a new interview at your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
4. Prepare updated supporting evidence (see Documents Checklist (2025)).
5. Attend your interview and explain any changes since your last application.

Tips for a Successful Reapplication

• Be honest and transparent about previous refusals.
• Provide new or updated information to address past refusal reasons.
• Show stronger home-country ties (employment, property, or family commitments).
• Demonstrate financial stability with recent bank statements or sponsorship letters.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying after your I-94 has expired without a valid reason.
• Leaving the U.S. while an extension request is pending.
• Submitting identical documents from a previously refused application.
• Providing incomplete financial or travel evidence.

If Your Application or Reapplication Is Refused

You will receive a written explanation under Section 214(b) or 221(g).
You can reapply once you’ve resolved the refusal reasons — such as lack of funds, weak travel purpose, or missing documents.
See U.S. Visa Refusals (2025) for details.

Related Guidance

• Eligibility Requirements (2025)
• Documents Checklist (2025)
• Proof of Funds (2025)
• Permitted & Non-Permitted Activities (2025)

People Also Asked

Can I extend my B1/B2 visa while in the U.S.?
Yes. You can apply for an extension before your authorised stay expires by submitting Form I-539 to USCIS.

How long can a B1/B2 visa be extended?
Extensions are usually granted for up to six additional months, depending on your situation and purpose.

Can I reapply immediately after a visa refusal?
Yes, but only once you have new evidence or circumstances that address the previous refusal reason.

Do I need to attend another interview to reapply?
In most cases, yes — though some applicants may qualify for interview waivers based on age or prior visa history.

Will reapplying too soon affect my chances?
Yes. Applying again without addressing prior refusal grounds often results in another rejection.

About This Page

Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.
Last Updated: November 2025.