1. What is the STEM OPT extension and how does it work? The STEM OPT extension is a provision that allows international students who have completed a degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field from a U.S. institution to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) work authorization in the United States for an […]
Read MoreCategory: International
OPT to H-1B What Happens If You Miss the Lottery
3. Is there a waiting list for H-1B visas if I miss the lottery? If you miss the H-1B lottery, your petition will not be selected for cap-subject processing for that fiscal year. In this case, you would not have the opportunity to file an H-1B petition for that year and would have to wait […]
Read MoreF-1 to H-1B The Complete Transition Guide
3. Can an international student on an F-1 visa apply for an H-1B visa before completing their studies? 1. Yes, an international student on an F-1 visa can apply for an H-1B visa before completing their studies under certain circumstances. 2. In order to be eligible to apply for an H-1B visa before completing their […]
Read MoreCap Gap Maintaining F-1 Status Between OPT and H-1B
1. What is the Cap Gap period? The Cap Gap period refers to the automatic extension of an F-1 student’s duration of status and any current work authorization (such as Optional Practical Training – OPT) in order to bridge the gap between the end of their OPT period and the start of their approved H-1B […]
Read MoreH-1B to Green Card Step-by-Step Pathway
8. Are there any limitations on changing job roles or employers during the green card process? 1. Yes, there are limitations on changing job roles or employers during the green card process. The green card application is usually sponsored by a specific employer based on the job offered to the foreign national. This means that […]
Read MoreH-1B Premium Processing Cost, Timeline, and Which Forms Qualify
3. Is there a difference in processing times between regular and premium processing? Yes, there is a significant difference in processing times between regular and premium processing for H-1B visas. 1. Regular processing for H-1B visas can take several months to process, with average processing times ranging from 2 to 6 months, depending on the […]
Read MoreH-1B Denial Common Reasons and How to Respond
2. How can inadequate job description lead to H-1B denial? Inadequate job descriptions can indeed lead to H-1B denial for several reasons. Firstly, the lack of detailed information about the job duties and requirements can cause ambiguity and raise doubts about whether the position truly qualifies as a specialty occupation, which is a key H-1B […]
Read MoreH-1B Cap Exempt Organizations Universities and Nonprofits
2. Can universities apply for H-1B visas for their employees under the cap-exempt category? Yes, universities can apply for H-1B visas for their employees under the cap-exempt category. Universities are considered cap-exempt organizations, meaning they are not subject to the annual H-1B visa cap that limits the number of new H-1B visas issued each fiscal […]
Read MoreH-1B Renewal Timeline and Process
1. What is the timeline for renewing an H-1B visa? The timeline for renewing an H-1B visa typically begins six months before the current visa’s expiration date. It is recommended to initiate the renewal process as early as possible to account for any potential delays or issues that may arise. The specific steps involved in […]
Read MoreH-1B Transfer How to Change Employers
1. What is an H-1B transfer? An H-1B transfer refers to the process of changing employers while maintaining H-1B visa status in the United States. This typically involves finding a new job with a different employer who is willing to sponsor your H-1B visa. The new employer must file a new H-1B petition on your […]
Read More