What is the “240-day extension”?

The “240-day extension” is the informal name for a provision that allows an H-1B professional to continue working lawfully while awaiting a decision on an extension or change of status petition, provided it was filed on time, before the current status expired.

In practice, if the employer files the petition within the required window, the worker may remain employed throughout the review period, even if the original status expires in the meantime. The intent is to avoid interrupting employment while USCIS processes the request.

A word of caution: if the petition is denied or complications arise, that continued work authorization may be called into question, and other factors can affect the individual’s immigration status. The exact period and conditions are defined by regulation and are subject to change.

For that reason, the safest approach is to confirm current requirements and timelines with USCIS or a qualified specialist, and to monitor your petition’s deadlines closely.

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.