If your dependents are inside the US and need to change to, or extend their status, they must file the
Form I-539. As a courtesy to you, a UW employee, we will include* your dependent(s) application with your petition if you choose to do so and it will be a paper filing, not online. Some dependents can file the I-539 online and save $50. To see if your dependent can file the I-539,
check their eligibility on the USCIS website.
If you choose to file a paper application, here are a few resources/tips.
- Effective 10/1/2025, you must pay the filing fee using a personal credit card. To do this, complete and sign Form G-1450.
- Suggested documentation to include for your dependent(s):
- Spouse only - Marriage certificate
- Children only - Birth certificate
- Copy of the biographical page from each dependent's passport
- Most recent visa stamp for each dependent
- Current I-94 entry document for each dependent
- Prior H-4 approval(s), if applicable
- Most recent I-20 if your dependent is currently an F student
- DS-2019s (formerly IAP66) if your dependent was ever a J-1 or J-2
- Dependents work authorization document (EAD), if applicable
- Other relevant documentation you would like to provide with the I-539 application
- If we are filing the dependent application(s) at the same time as your H-1B/O-1/E-3/TN, upload Form I-539 petition and Form G-1450 in Terra Dotta (Documents tab/Beneficiary's dependents extending or changing status category).
- For individuals filing to change status to J-1, follow the instructions online for where to file your application if you are filing a paper application rather than online.
What if my dependents are outside the US?
If your dependents are outside the U.S., they do not need to file Form I-539. Your dependents can obtain their status by requesting a visa appointment at a U.S. Consulate/Embassy and presenting the employee’s approval notice (the I-797A or B) along with the marriage certificate (for spouses) or birth certificate (for children under the age of 21).
- EXCEPTION: TD dependents who are exempt from obtaining a US visa stamp will obtain TD status at CBP when entering the US.
*IMPORTANT!
IFSS cannot advise on the Form I-539 since it is a personal petition. We cannot give legal advice to your family or about your family. As a courtesy to the employee, we will send the Form I-539 with the supporting documentation along with your petition. We will not review the I-539 for completeness or errors.
IFSS cannot submit Form I-539 for your dependent(s) if we are not filing a petition for you at the same time. Form I-539 can be filed separately from your petition. If you or your dependents would like assistance completing Form I-539, please consult an immigration attorney.
Additional Resources:
Who Can Be a Dependent?
Dependent Work Permission