What does the acronym COS mean?

The acronym COS stands for Change of Status. It is the procedure that allows someone already legally present in the United States to move from one immigration status to another without leaving the country.

A common example in the context of the H-1B: a student who receives a qualifying job offer can request a Change of Status to H-1B from within the U.S., rather than processing the visa at a consulate abroad. This avoids a trip and the consular process, provided the requirements of the new status are met.

Each COS request is reviewed individually by USCIS, and the outcome depends on demonstrating that the conditions of the new status are satisfied and that the applicant has maintained lawful status throughout.

Because requirements and forms can change, it is worth confirming the current rules with USCIS or with an immigration professional before requesting a Change of Status.

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.