Over 40 years I have moved from a work permit to non-immigrant status, in latter case with extensions initially based in marriage, later changed to retirement because less hassle involved. Never used an agent, and never had any problem whatsoever. Reading some of the above postings I appear to have been lucky to have had such an easy time, and I fear things are now getting tougher. Would be interested to know if others feel things are becoming more difficult at immigration offices generally, or just at certain specific locations.