1. What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a type of temporary employment that international students with F-1 student visas can apply for. It allows students to gain practical experience in their field of study through part-time or full-time work authorization for up to 12 months for most undergraduate and graduate students.
2. How long is the duration of OPT?
The duration of Optional Practical Training (OPT) is typically 12 months for most F-1 visa holders. However, additional time may be granted based on the student’s degree level and field of study.
3. Who is eligible for OPT?
OPT is available to international students who have completed or are in the process of completing a degree program from a US university in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field. To be eligible for OPT, the student must have been a full-time student for at least one academic year prior to applying for OPT.
4. What are the requirements to qualify for OPT?
To qualify for Optional Practical Training (OPT), you must be a currently enrolled student or a recent graduate of a U.S. educational institution that has been accredited by the U.S. Department of Education and certified by the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). You must also have been studying in the U.S. for at least one full academic year prior to the start of the OPT period. Additionally, you must be working in a job related to your major field of study.
5. How do I apply for OPT?
To apply for OPT, you must first submit an application to USCIS. This includes completing form I-765, submitting a copy of your passport, a copy of your I-94 record, and the applicable fees. Additionally, you must also submit form I-20 with an endorsement from your school’s Designated School Official (DSO). It is important to note that the application must be received by USCIS at least 90 days prior to the end date of your current period of stay as noted on your form I-94.
6. What documents do I need to submit for OPT?
You will need to submit the following documents for OPT:
-Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
-Copy of your passport bio page
-Most recent I-94
-Copy of your EAD card (if you have one)
-Copy of your current OPT I-20 with the completed OPT recommendation page
-Copy of your diploma or transcripts
-Proof of financial support (if applicable)
-2 identical passport size photographs (with your name written on the back)
-Check or money order of $410 payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
7. What is the difference between Pre-Completion OPT and Post-Completion OPT?
Pre-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) is work authorization granted to F-1 international students before they complete their degree program granting them the opportunity to gain practical experience in their field of study. Post-completion OPT is a type of work authorization that is granted to F-1 international students after they complete their degree program. It allows them to gain practical experience in their field of study for up to 12 months. Post-completion OPT can be extended for an additional 24 months under the 24-month STEM OPT extension.
8. Is there a time limit on how long I can stay in the United States on an OPT visa?
Yes, the OPT visa is valid for 12 months from the start of the program. However, F-1 students who qualify for STEM OPT can extend their OPT up to 24 months.
9. How much time does it take to get approved for OPT?
It takes approximately 3 to 5 months for international students to get approved for OPT.
10. What is the STEM Extension of OPT?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The STEM Extension of OPT is an extension of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program that allows international students with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) degrees to extend their post-completion OPT work authorization for up to 24 months.
11. Does my school have to be approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to participate in OPT?
No. The Department of Homeland Security does not require schools to be approved in order to participate in OPT. However, the school must have been accredited by a recognized accrediting agency for at least two years and must have been issuing I-20s for at least two years. The school is also required to be registered with the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
12. How can I find out more information about my school’s participation in OPT?
You can contact your school’s international student office for more information about their specific OPT program and requirements. You can also find general information about OPT on the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
13. Can I travel outside of the United States while on an OPT visa?
Yes, you can travel outside of the United States while on an OPT visa, provided you have a valid visa, authorized travel signature, and all other necessary documents. However, you must have an approved I-20 from your school with a valid OPT endorsement to be eligible for re-entry into the US.
14. Can I work during my OPT period?
Yes. During your OPT period, you are allowed to work part-time (20 hours or less per week) or full-time (more than 20 hours a week). You must make sure that the job is related to your major field of study.
15. What impact does applying for Optional Practical Training have on my F-1 visa status?
Applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) does not have any direct impact on your F-1 visa status. It simply permits you to gain practical work experience in your field of study related to your degree program while in the United States. However, if your OPT application is denied, it would have a negative impact on your visa status.
16. Are there any restrictions or limitations on my employment while on an OPT visa?
Yes, there are restrictions and limitations on employment while on an OPT visa. The most important ones are that the employment must be directly related to your major area of study and must be for at least 20 hours per week. You are also not allowed to work for more than 90 days in a 12-month period without authorization from USCIS. Additionally, you may not work as an independent contractor or self-employed while on an OPT visa.
17. Are there any taxes that I have to pay while working on an OPT visa?
Yes, you will still be responsible for filing a federal income tax return and paying taxes on the income you earn. You may also be required to pay state and local taxes depending on your state’s laws. You should consult with a tax advisor to determine the specific taxes that you are obligated to pay.
18. Can my family members accompany me while I am in the U.S. on an OPT visa?
Yes, your family members may accompany you while you are in the U.S. on an OPT visa. However, they will need to apply for their own visa to enter the country. Once they have entered the U.S., they can stay with you for up to two years as long as your visa is valid. However, they will not be able to work or study in the U.S., unless they have their own OPT or other work visas.
19. Does Optional Practical Training count towards U.S. citizenship?
No, Optional Practical Training does not count towards U.S. citizenship. However, certain types of employment, such as employment with the U.S. government or a qualifying international organization, may count towards naturalization.
20. Can I extend my OPT period beyond the initial 12 months of eligibility?
Yes, you may be eligible to extend your OPT period if you are currently in valid OPT status and will have/have received a degree from a US institution which is accredited by an organization recognized by the US Department of Education. You must apply for an extension before your current OPT period ends. The application must include documents supporting that you have maintained valid F-1 status and that you have continued to engage in appropriate practical training during your current OPT period. If approved, the extension allows for additional time in OPT, up to a maximum of 24 months in total. Please contact the OISS for more information about applying for an OPT extension.