START PREPARING EARLY FOR THE BEST CHANCES OF RENEWAL

Your visa expires in 1 year - What to do today

Contributor

Tukki

Reading time

3 mins read

Date published

Jan 17, 2025

Time flies when you’re having fun, right? But if you’re in the US on a temporary visa, what happens when the clock starts ticking toward the expiration date of your current status?

If you’re within a year of your visa’s expiration, it’s time to act. Here’s when to get started and how to navigate the process.

US visa transitions take an unknown amount of time

This isn’t your first visa so you know that changing or extending a temporary visa involves more than filling out forms—though that part can be time-consuming! Visa petitioning is a complex process that requires preparation, documentation, and, often, navigating government processing delays. For example, Requests for Evidence (RFEs) to provide more proof of your eligibility can extend a timeline by weeks or even months.

Depending on the type of visa or US green card you’re transitioning to, you should budget time to meet with your immigration lawyer and gather the necessary evidence to make a strong petition. Letters of recommendation, proof of achievements, and other documentation aren’t built overnight.

12 months aren’t as long as they seem

One year might sound like plenty of time, but here’s the reality:

Processing times are unpredictable. The US immigration system often faces backlogs, so what’s listed as “typical processing time” may not reflect real-time delays or extenuating circumstances on temporary visa renewals.
Preparation eats into your timeline. From collecting evidence to consulting with immigration lawyers, you might need months to ensure everything is ready to submit even if you work with a full legal team.
You risk overstaying extensions and having to leave the US. Extensions and transitions aren’t guaranteed. Even with a strong case, immigration authorities can take time to approve—or question—your petition. Starting early buffers any unexpected hurdles.

The last thing you want is to have to uproot your life due to red tape and bureaucratic delays.

A visa timeline calculator can help

Planning your next steps can feel overwhelming, but that’s where tools like this timeline and visa calculator come in. It’s designed to give you a clear picture of what to expect for your specific visa or US green card process, including how long each step typically takes, verified by US immigration lawyers.

Whether you’re thinking about transitioning to a US green card or extending your current visa, this tool can help you identify when to start and avoid rushing critical steps.

Proactive action = peace of mind

The earlier you start, the more control you’ll have over your immigration journey, especially because a consultation with an immigration lawyer can give you a roadmap for improving your profile, so when it’s time to apply, you’re ready. There are several steps you can take to improve your eligibility, but some can take months—so it’s better to know in advance and plan ahead.

Moreover, waiting too long can lead to last-minute stress, rushed applications, or even gaps in your legal status. By taking action now, you’ll have time to:

Build a strong, well-documented petition.
Avoid unnecessary premium processing fees.
Navigate challenges, including RFEs, without rushing.

What’s your next step?

If you’re within a year of your visa’s expiration, schedule a consultation with Tukki’s legal team to explore your options, plan your timeline, and get the support you need for a seamless visa transition.

Your future in the US doesn’t have to be uncertain—start early, plan ahead, and choose Tukki’s immigration lawyer to make it a premium experience.

WE CAN HELP

Need more clarity?

Find quick answers to frequent visa questions from our legal experts

Does having patents help in EB-1A or O-1 petitions?

Yes. Patents that have been commercialized or frequently cited can help demonstrate original contributions. However, simply holding a patent that has not been applied or recognized by others in the field is not sufficient to establish this category.

What is the minimum investment required for an E-2 visa?

There is no fixed dollar amount in the law. Instead, the investment must be “substantial” relative to the type of business. In practice, amounts under $100,000 are often considered too low, while $150,000–$200,000 or more are typically viewed as stronger. Other factors—such as the number of employees, the type of activity, and the revenue generated—also play an important role. The E-2 is not judged only by a number, but by a combination of factors showing that the business is real, viable, and capable of supporting operations and jobs in the U.S.

How do I demonstrate that my work is in the national interest of the United States?

To prove that your work is in the national interest, you must show that it has a direct and significant impact on the U.S. in areas such as technology, healthcare, education, economic growth, or national security.

Your contributions should provide clear benefits to the country as a whole, beyond just your employer or local community.

You can demonstrate this through government reports, industry publications, media coverage, patents, or letters from experts confirming that your work aligns with national priorities and contributes to broader advancements in society, an industry, or the economy.

Can I apply for a green card while on a student visa (F-1)?

Yes, but it depends on your situation. Some students transition to a work visa (like O-1 or H-1B) and later to a green card.

Others may qualify directly for categories like EB-1 or marriage-based green cards.

Keep in mind that the F-1 visa does not allow “dual intent,” so timing and strategy are very important.

Does being invited as a conference speaker help in an EB-1A or O-1 petition?

Absolutely. Speaking engagements—especially at well-known or international conferences—show that you are recognized as an authority in your field. The more selective and prestigious the event, the stronger the evidence. Although it does not fall into a specific category, it is very important for the final merits evaluation.

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