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What if I can't find a job while on OPT?
You are allowed up to 90 days of unemployment during your initial 12 months of OPT. If you exceed this limit, you are expected to leave the U.S. or transfer to another educational program.
Can I work after my work permit application approved but waiting for EAD card to arrive?
No, working while your OPT is approved but you're waiting for your EAD is illegal and can jeopardize your legal status in the US. You can't start working until you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card and the authorized start dat...
Can I work with a pending OPT application?
No, you cannot begin working until you have received your EAD card from USCIS.
Can I travel while my OPT application is pending?
Traveling while your OPT application is pending can be risky. It is generally advised to travel only if you have received your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and have a job offer.
What does STEM OPT extension mean?
If you have earned a degree in certain science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, you may apply for a 24-month extension of your post-completion OPT employment authorization if you:Are an F-1 student who received a STEM degree included...
How do I apply for OPT?
You must:Request that your designated school official (DSO) at your academic institution recommend the OPT. Your DSO will make the recommendation by endorsing your Form I-20, Certification of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, and making th...
What does Optional Practical Training “OPT” mean?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment directly related to an F-1 student’s major. Eligible students can apply for up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization both before (pre-completion) and after (post-completion) finishing t...
I have completed my undergraduate degree and am enrolling in a graduate program at the same university next semester. I am not applying for OPT and have been issued a new I-20 form. Can I continue to work on campus during the summer without interruption?
Yes. If you have a new I-20 form to begin a new program or intend to enroll for the next regular academic year, term, and session at the institution, you can continue your on-campus employment.
What is On-Campus Employment?
On-campus employment must meet one of the following definitions: 1. The employment takes place on school premises and the employee (student) is paid by the school for the work. Examples include jobs at Dining, the Recreational Sports Facility (RSF),...
Am I qualified for reinstatement?
File for Reinstatement (If Eligible): Prepare the Application: Complete the Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, to apply for reinstatement.Submit Required Documents: Include a written explanation of the violation, a new For...
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