Can I work with a pending OPT application?

No, you cannot begin working until you have received your EAD card from USCIS.

Mine Gur
125 Posts | Lawyer

Who is eligible to apply for a Social Security Number?

F-1 students with a job offer letter and/or work permissionJ-1 students with a job offer and work permission from their DS-2019 sponsorJ-1 visiting scholarsJ-2 dependents with work permission from USCIS (EAD)Individuals with other types of nonimmigra...

Mine Gur
125 Posts | Lawyer

I am a student visa holder, and my employer deducted Social Security and Medicare (FICA) taxes. Do I need to pay these taxes?

The Internal Revenue Code grants an exemption from social security and Medicare taxes to nonimmigrant students in F-1 status. The exemption period of the F-1 visa is five years from the date of their arrival in the US.

Mine Gur
125 Posts | Lawyer

Can a refugee apply for a student visa and be allowed to travel in the United States?

If you are a refugee in a country that is not your home country (for example, you are a Syrian refugee in Turkey), and you wish to study in another country (such as the United States), you would typically need to apply for a student visa (e.g., F-1 v...

Mine Gur
125 Posts | Lawyer

Can I transfer my credit history from my home country to the U.S.?

No, credit histories are typically country specific. If you move to the U.S., you will need to build a new credit history from scratch, even if you had a good credit history in your home country.

Mine Gur
125 Posts | Lawyer

I am an international student. Do I have to use Practical Training (F-1) or Academic Training (J-1) before I can get the H-1B?

Not necessarily. However, most F-1 or J-1 students will find it advantageous to obtain Practical Training or Academic Training to begin working as soon as they are offered the job since cap subject employment may not start until October 1st, and sinc...

Mine Gur
125 Posts | Lawyer

What happens after my OPT period ends?

After your OPT period ends, you have a 60-day grace period to either leave the U.S., transfer to another academic program, or change your immigration status.

Mine Gur
125 Posts | Lawyer

How can I apply the CPT? Do I need to apply work permit from USCIS?

To apply for CPT, you must go through your Designated School Official (DSO). You need to apply online before starting your internship, clerkship, or practicum. The following documents are required for the CPT application:CPT Employment Information (o...

Mine Gur
125 Posts | Lawyer

What is the cost of renting an apartment in the US?

The cost of renting an apartment in the U.S. can vary widely depending on the location, size, and amenities. As of 2023, the national average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,500 per month. In major cities like New York or San Francisco,...

Mine Gur
125 Posts | Lawyer

Can I bring my family with me on an F1 visa?

F1 students have the option to bring their spouse and children (under 21) on F2 visas. Importantly, F2 dependents are not allowed to work. Those holding F2 visas can take part-time courses at an SEVP-certified institution, including vocational or rec...

Mine Gur
125 Posts | Lawyer

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