USCIS confirms changes to forms I-539 and I-765 effective September 15

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced upcoming modifications to key application forms, I-539 and I-765, which will take effect on September 15. These changes are designed to align with new regulations concerning fixed periods of admission and procedures for extending the stay of certain nonimmigrants.

The updated I-539 form, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, will replace the version dated August 28, 2024. Similarly, the I-765 form, Application for Employment Authorization, will transition from the version dated August 21, 2025, to the new edition. USCIS clarified that prior versions of these forms will only be accepted if submitted before the September 15 deadline. For mailed applications, the postmark date will be considered, while electronic submissions will be dated by the day they are sent.

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The agency pointed out that this update will not have an additional period to allow the use of previous forms.

USCIS emphasized that there will be no grace period for the transition to the updated forms. This strict adherence is linked to the immediate implementation of new provisions regarding admission periods for students (F visas), exchange visitors (J visas), and foreign media representatives (I visas). Applicants are advised to review the preliminary versions of the forms, dated September 15, and their corresponding instructions before the effective date, but should not submit these preliminary versions prior to September 15. Submitting an outdated form after the deadline will result in rejection.

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Those who send the I-539 with the August 28 edition starting September 15 will receive a rejection from USCIS.