0
0
Many visitors traveling through one of the member countries of Schengen have asked themselves “Can my tourist visa be extended?”.
As much as it may be possible to extend a visitor visa, doing so often requires providing an explanation and proof that any conditions stipulated within your original application haven’t been breached. A qualified immigration lawyer can assist in gathering all the documents to support an extension application.
Requirements for an Extension
Officials require proof that you can support yourself financially during the extension period as well as providing them with a written personal statement providing additional details of why and where your trip is taking place.
Make the strongest case possible for an extension by providing compelling reasons, such as illness that would prevent you from returning home shortly or an unforeseen event beyond your control. Also helpful would be having documentation from a physician detailing this medical issue.
If you want to extend your visa in South Africa, make an application seven days before its expiration and provide a cover letter explaining why and proof that you can return home at the end of your extension period. In addition, proof such as purchased tickets will show that your intention is indeed to leave the country when its extension ends.
Alternatives to Applying for a Visa Extension
Though most countries require visa holders to leave at the expiry of their validity period, there may be exceptions due to humanitarian reasons such as needing medical treatment in one of the member states, attending funeral services or supporting relatives experiencing hardships.
In such instances, an individual may file for an extension for up to six months – this process still involves providing documents but tends to involve less paperwork than applying for a regular visa.
When applying for a visa extension, it’s vital that you clearly explain why and for what purpose. A clear explanation will help convince immigration authorities of your genuine need to remain in the country based on whatever claim is being made against you.
Common Concerns with Tourist Visa Extensions
Individuals traveling on visas that require them to leave at specific dates, and wish to extend their stay beyond what is permitted, must file for an extension in order to stay longer than permitted. Unfortunately, filing an extension can often require filing several additional documents not normally needed when applying for a regular visa application.
Individuals looking to extend their tourist visa should ensure they have enough money saved up for an extended stay and be ready to present evidence of financial stability and ties back home, such as bank statements or employment contracts.
Applicant should also keep in mind that certain countries, like Greece, do not permit visitors to extend their visa beyond 90 days; in such instances, visitors who wish to extend their stay must apply for a new visa.
Filing for a Visa Extension
As a tourist visa holder, you may be eligible to extend your stay in the US; however, be prepared to make an argument for why you should remain longer than authorized – there could be serious repercussions for individuals staying beyond their permissible duration in America.
Your stay will be determined by the date on your I-94 form tag, with maximum allowed duration being six months for people on B visas and 90 days if applying through Visa Waiver Program.
If you plan to apply for an extension, be sure to apply at least 45 days in advance of its expiration. This will give you time to present an effective case for staying, while giving USCIS adequate time to review your application. Booking flights back home could help convince USCIS of your intention of return.
