Q1. What is USCIS ELIS?
A1. USCIS ELIS is the new, Web-based system that allows applicants, their attorneys and accredited representatives to create an online account and submit and track immigration benefit requests 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Certain customers can now apply online for an extension of their nonimmigrant stay or a change of status to another nonimmigrant category using USCIS ELIS. USCIS will add additional benefit types to USCIS ELIS in future releases.

Q2. What types of benefit requests are available in USCIS ELIS?
A2. In the first release of USCIS ELIS, certain customers will be able to file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. To determine if you are eligible to file a benefit request in USCIS ELIS, please see the chart below:

If you want to…	and you…	then…
Extend status	are currently a… B-1, B-2, F-1, M-1 or M-2	you can file in USCIS ELIS
Change status	want to become a… B-1, B-2, F-1, F-2, J-1, J-2, M-1 or M-2
Reinstate status	previously were a… F-1, F-2, M-1 or M-2

Q3. What happens if an ineligible person creates an online account and/or files a benefit request in USCIS ELIS?
A3. Any person who creates an online account and submits a benefit request and fee in USCIS ELIS will have his or her benefit request adjudicated by a USCIS officer. If the person is ineligible for the benefit requested, the case will be denied. Fees paid
for denied benefit requests will not be refunded.

Q4. Can I still file a paper-based application?
A4. Yes. However, USCIS strongly encourages eligible individuals to apply for benefits through USCIS ELIS. Because USCIS recognizes that not every I-539 applicant is able to file electronically, we will continue to accept paper applications at this time. USCIS will notify the public of any future change to end paper filing and will provide an appropriate transition period.

Q5. How does USCIS ELIS affect the processing and decision of benefit requests?
A5. USCIS ELIS helps USCIS employees process benefit requests more efficiently. USCIS adjudicators now have access to a case management system which allows them to make a decision on the case in an almost entirely paperless environment. Additionally, USCIS ELIS is able to automatically issue notifications to customers when an adjudicator takes action on a case or issues a Request for Evidence (RFE).

Q6. How is USCIS ELIS different from traditional E-filing?
A6. USCIS ELIS is a comprehensive end-to-end system that allows the applicant to electronically file a benefit request, upload and submit evidence, submit payment, receive notifications and communications from USCIS, and manage their account information. As form types and functions are added to USCIS ELIS, applicants can use their account to file for other benefits without having to re-enter personal information. USCIS ELIS also allows a USCIS officer to:
• Review the applicant’s information and supporting evidence
• Conduct risk and fraud investigation
• Validate some immigration background information
• Issue notices, and
• Make decisions (adjudicate) a case
Traditional E-filing is a front-facing intake system that allows an applicant to fill out a form and submit payment online. The applicant must then mail their supporting evidence to the appropriate USCIS office. USCIS cannot begin adjudication until the supporting documents are received. The USCIS Officer then performs all the manual checks, adjudicates on paper and enters the decision. The applicant receives all requests and notices by mail. With this system, the applicant is unable to manage their account information online.

More QAs please visit USCIS/ELIS