• In advance of your visa expiring 
  • Do not wait until last minute
  • At least 45 days before hand, depending on the visa 6 months in advance (h-1b visa)
• For the visitor visa: 
  • If you have more upcoming events or activities planned even a few days after your visa expires
  • If you have a legitimate reason for wanting to extend your visa, under the right visa category
  • You have definitive plans to leave the United States after the visa expires
  • You were lawfully admitted
  • No committed crimes
  • Conditions have not been violated
  • Passport is valid
  • Proper evidence for financial aid is provided
• If you can articulate and prove why you want to stay in the United States longer