Hello,

I recently received a 1 year B1/B2 visa (as in, a few days ago).

I'm considering getting it extended to 5 years. While I was at the US Consulate (Sydney) one of the girls there asked me if I wanted a 5 year or 1 year visa. I was a bit taken aback as I didn't realise that you could get a 5 year visa (thought it was 1 year max), so just went with the 1 year, but now I wish I had gone for the 5 year option.

How difficult will it be for me to change it now that I've already received my passport/visa do you think?

You can't change the one you've already got in your passport. You'd have to re-apply for a whole new B-2 visa.

Rene

Wouldn't really matter, it's not like you'll be living in the US for that long anyway, 6 months max per visit, possibly more if you're very lucky.

For one thing it would mean that I wouldn't have to worry about the current one expiring while I'm in the US.

ensure you understand a 5 year visa does not mean you can
stay in the US for 5 years ..likewise a one year visa does not allow a years stay

Understood. However I could still be overseas while the 1 year visa expires (annoying).

From what you have written so far, you don't seem to understand the difference between visa and status. A "visa" only allows you to knock on the door and ask to be let in. Once you are admitted on the corresponding "status" (e.g., B2), your status doesn't expire with the expiry of the visa, e.g., you could have a tourist visa which is valid for a week and be admitted for 6 months.

Similarly, if you are admitted on some other status, and then become "out of status" (e.g., after losing your job), you can apply for "change of status" to B2 within the US without needing a B2 visa, because you are already in the US.

Thanks. I do understand (this was made clear to me fairly early on).

So what? You write this as though the visa expiry makes a difference to how long you're allowed to remain in the US!

Ian

Ok, I have read, and then re-read, Marocco's post. I think I finally get it now.

Gah, I am not normally this thick-headed! Thx & apologies