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USCIS ELIS

USCIS ELIS Now Available

What is USCIS ELIS?

USCIS ELIS is a user-friendly system created to streamline the application process for immigration benefits. It allows immigration benefit seekers and their legal representatives to create an account and file benefit requests online. USCIS ELIS provides more accurate and secure customer service. It also allows USCIS to process cases in a more efficient, consistent and secure environment.

Who can use USCIS ELIS?

Certain applicants can electronically file the Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. Over time, USCIS ELIS will include more benefit types and increased functions.  

If you want to And you Then Exceptions
Extend status are a B-1, B-2, F-1, M-1 or M-2 you can use USCIS ELIS
  • Individuals in the F-1 classification who received a date-specific visa that requires completion of a given course of study within a specific time can extend status in USCIS ELIS.
  • Other F-1s are admitted for duration of status and should contact their designated school official to extend status.
Change status

want to become a B-1, B-2, F-1, F-2, J-1, J-2, M-1 or M-2

  • An M-1 student may not change status to an F-1 student
Reinstate status were a F-1 or M-1

  • The spouse or child of an F-1 or M-1 student may be included in the principal’s benefit request.

Before creating your account in USCIS ELIS, please review the table above to make sure you are able to file a benefit request using USCIS ELIS. If you are not eligible, please visit www.uscis.gov/i-539 to download the Form I-539 paper application to extend or change your nonimmigrant status. See our Students and Exchange Visitors page for information on the specific visa categories. 

Why Use USCIS ELIS?

USCIS ELIS allows applicants to: 

Create an individual online account
  • Open an account online that you may use to interact with USCIS
  • Sign up to receive email notifications and text messages
  • Manage your account preferences and contact information in real time
Manage your interactions with USCIS securely and electronically
  • Electronically file (e-file) benefit requests from your account
  • Submit evidence electronically
  • Use a credit card or bank account (from a U.S. institution) to submit payment
  • Have an attorney or accredited representative file benefit requests in USCIS ELIS on your behalf
Get detailed help and current case status
  • File a benefit request with step-by-step help from an online setup assistant
  • Access online help in the “Tips” and “Help” sections of the setup assistant
  • Obtain real-time, detailed case status information

Start Using USCIS ELIS

Now that you’ve checked to see that you’re eligible to use USCIS ELIS you can create your account. Remember to read all instructions carefully.  

Do you have questions about USCIS ELIS? Visit our Questions & Answers Section.

If you need more help from USCIS, visit the Contact USCIS page.

Find this page at http://www.uscis.gov/uscis-elis



Last updated: 09/24/2012