If I get sick and need to stay more than 90 days, what should I do?

When entering the United States through the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA), we accept a stay of up to 90 days for specific purposes. However, unforeseen events, such as a health emergency, may require an extension of the stay period.

It is important to understand that ESTA was not designed to accommodate such extensions, and staying beyond the authorized period can bring serious complications with immigration authorities.

If you need to extend your stay due to medical problems, the first step is to seek medical care and obtain all documentation that proves your condition and the need for prolonged treatment.

Next, it is essential to contact the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to request an extension or change of your status, explaining the situation in detail and attaching medical reports.

Keep in mind that this type of request is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and the criteria can be very specific. It is essential to act quickly and transparently, avoiding the practice of remaining illegally in the country.

Exceeding the deadline without proper authorization can bring negative consequences, such as future difficulties in obtaining visas or penalties related to immigration.

Therefore, in addition to strictly following the laws, it is recommended to seek support from reliable sources or professionals experienced in immigration matters to guide your next steps.

Be wary of offers that promise guarantees or quick results, because within the scope of United States immigration laws, caution and respect for the legal process are essential to avoid complications in the future.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.