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I need help on my situation. I applied for a visitor visa to the US. When I filled in my application, I requested a month and I was given a 2-year multiple entry visa.

I know that, at the port of entry, it's the immigration officer that determines one's stay. I now want to stay for 4 months, if the officer gives me 6 months when I enter. I don't plan to overstay and ruin my future travel chances.

What should I do to not ruin my chances, but still stay for 4 months? Can I book a return for one month then, later, extend it to 4 months?

If I stay for 4 months, won't they think I am not truthful the next time I apply for a visa?

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Gozo246
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2 Answers2

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My advice is to stick to what you originally requested in your application for your first visit. After that for subsequent visits on the same visa you can stay till the duration given at the airport.

In November 1998, I applied for a US visa (for my second visit) requesting to stay for three weeks (maybe six, I have forgotten). I was issued a one year multiple entry visa. I came and was given six months at the airport. I spent five months three weeks and left, thinking I had beaten the system.

In September of 1999, when that visa was a few days from expiring I applied for an automatic renewal under the Interview Waiver Program. To my consternation I was invited for an interview. I think I was only asked three questions, one of which was how long I stayed on my previous visit and promptly denied.

Augustine of Hippo
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Whatever the CBP officer decides when you are admitted is valid, so if he gives you six months, you are admitted for six months.

If you have any doubts, you can simply ask him - you are considering to stay four month instead of what you planned originally, would that be ok?, and I am quite sure he will tell you the same - 180 days max, enjoy your visit!

Aganju
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