My L1A will max out on March 31st ,2020 after 7 years of stay since 2013 . I94 Expiring on same date . Due to corona virus , my home country (India) has temporarily suspended international flights but it can get extended if situation gets worsen. How can i stay in US legally and avoid being out of status after March 31st . My family prefers to travel when travel situation gets better and recommended by center of disease control .
Can i file change of status with I-539 for B1/B2 before March 31st and wait for new I94 or travel once situation gets better (Which ever is earlier) ? Will this over stay impact my future US travel or Green Card processing ? How does UHCIS/DHS handle such natural disaster situations ?
I agree with my colleagues. Your first step should be to apply for a change of status. Best to have an experienced immigration attorney represent you to ensure it is done properly.
DHS has yet to issue any policy guidance regarding changing/extending status in relation to COVID-19 You should apply for a change of status to B-2 nonimmigrant status in the interim. So long as the extension is approved, there should be no impact on future immigration applications and petitions.
Apply for change of status to B-2 and/or try to walk in to the CBP Deferred Inspection office and request for a "Satisfactory Departure" stamp - those offices are closed to the public until further notice.
