US Visa Waiver Programme Bars Status Changes for Travelers

The US government has confirmed that individuals entering the country through the Visa Waiver Programme are barred from adjusting their immigration status while in the United States. This restriction affects nationals from 42 countries who can visit the US for tourism for up to 90 days without a visa.

The rule is explicitly stated on the official travel website and indicates that unlike those arriving on standard nonimmigrant visas, Visa Waiver Programme entrants cannot change their visa category while remaining in the country. If they wish to extend their stay, pursue employment, or switch to a student visa, they must leave the US and apply for the appropriate visa from abroad.

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services website clarifies this exclusion under its "Change My Nonimmigrant Status" section, emphasizing that those entering through the Visa Waiver Programme have no option to change their status from within the country.