Post-Study Work Visa in the USA: A Comprehensive Guide

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Post-Study Work Visa in the USA: A Comprehensive Guide

The post-study work visa, commonly known as the Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT extension, allows international students to remain in the USA and gain practical work experience related to their field of study after completing their degree. This article provides a detailed overview of the process, eligibility requirements, and benefits of the post-study work visa in the USA.

Understanding OPT and STEM OPT

1. Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary employment authorization that allows international students with F-1 visas to work in the USA for up to 12 months after completing their degree. The employment must be directly related to the student’s major field of study.

  • Eligibility: To qualify for OPT, students must:
  • Have been enrolled in a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school.
  • Have completed at least one full academic year of study.
  • Apply for OPT before or within 60 days of completing their degree.
  • Application Process:
  • Application Timeline: Students should apply for OPT up to 90 days before their program end date and no later than 60 days after their program end date.
  • Form I-765: Applicants must file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
  • Fee: The application fee is $410, though this is subject to change.
  • Employment Types: OPT employment can be full-time or part-time, and students can work for multiple employers or switch jobs as long as the work is related to their field of study.

2. STEM OPT Extension

The STEM OPT extension allows students who have completed a degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field to extend their OPT period by an additional 24 months, making the total duration of work authorization up to 36 months.

  • Eligibility: To qualify for the STEM OPT extension, students must:
  • Have completed a degree in a STEM field from an SEVP-certified institution.
  • Be currently participating in OPT and working for an employer enrolled in the E-Verify program.
  • File the application within 90 days of the end of their initial OPT period and before their OPT expires.
  • Application Process:
  • Form I-765: Students must file Form I-765 for the STEM OPT extension.
  • Form I-983: Students must also submit Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, detailing the training and learning objectives of the job.
  • Fee: The STEM OPT extension application fee is also $410.
  • Employer Requirements: Employers must be enrolled in E-Verify and provide training that aligns with the student’s field of study. The student and employer must work together to complete the Form I-983.

Benefits of Post-Study Work Visas

  • Career Experience: OPT and STEM OPT provide international students with valuable work experience in the USA, enhancing their resumes and increasing their competitiveness in the global job market.
  • Networking Opportunities: Working in the USA allows students to build professional networks, which can be advantageous for future career prospects.
  • Potential Pathways to Permanent Residency: Gaining work experience in the USA can open pathways to employer-sponsored visas and potentially lead to permanent residency.

Challenges and Considerations

  • Visa Status: Students must be cautious about maintaining their F-1 visa status and adhering to the regulations associated with OPT and STEM OPT.
  • Job Search: Finding a job directly related to their field of study can be challenging, and students must secure employment within 90 days of their OPT start date to avoid affecting their visa status.
  • Compliance: Students must ensure their employers are compliant with the E-Verify program for STEM OPT and complete necessary paperwork accurately and on time.

Conclusion

The post-study work visa options, including OPT and the STEM OPT extension, offer valuable opportunities for international students to gain practical experience in the USA. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application processes, and benefits, students can effectively navigate the post-study work visa landscape and enhance their career prospects in the global job market.