If my F-1 expires while waiting for adjustment of status (got married!), do I have to leave until it's approved?

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If my F-1 expires while waiting for adjustment of status (got married!), do I have to leave until it's approved?

Anonymous Apr 1, 2014 Business 2 views 3 answers

I am an F-1 student whose I-94 expires in May (graduating with my master's). I married a US citizen in December 2013 and have since filed for adjustment. It looks like processing could take up to 10 months. Once my I-94 expires, do I have to leave the country until it's approved? I'm confused because there's the "can't leave, but not allowed to stay" idea, but at the same time, I filed for adjustment of status within the US and it's a slightly different process from abroad, so I worry that I'd have to refile. Thank you!

Gunda Brost · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T11:03:12+00:00

No. While not in an actual status, you'd be in a period of authorized stay while you are awaiting the adjudication of the I-485. However, should it be denied, you need to either have a valid legal status to fall back on or promptly leave before you incur unlawful presence that could affect future immigration benefits. Work with an immigration attorney for best results.

Karin WolmanImmigration AttorneyNew York, NY · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T11:03:12+00:00

If you leave the country, then your application for adjustment of status will be deemed abandoned. As noted by Ms. Brost, you should work with an attorney.

Alexander Joseph SegalImmigration AttorneyNew York, NYNY licensed · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T11:03:12+00:00

No. I-485 when properly filed on the basis of a bona fide marriage to a USC and accompanied by a valid I-130 with all fees paid, renders your stay authorized by the AG until the end of the adjudication.

If my F-1 expires while waiting for adjustment of status (got married!), do I have to leave until it's approved?

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