1. What kind of visa do I need to stay in the U.S. after graduation?
The type of visa you need to stay in the U.S. after graduation will depend on what your plans are for the future. If you plan to work in the U.S., you will need an employment-based visa, such as an H-1B visa. If you plan to study further, you may be eligible for an F-1 student visa. If you plan to stay in the U.S. permanently, you may be eligible for an immigrant visa, such as an EB-5 visa or a green card.
2. Am I eligible for an Optional Practical Training (OPT) visa?
The requirements for an Optional Practical Training (OPT) visa vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, you must be enrolled in a U.S. school in order to be eligible for an OPT visa. Additionally, you must have completed at least one academic year of full-time coursework. To apply for the visa, you must have a job offer related to your field of study and must provide evidence that the job is directly related to your degree program.
3. How long can I stay in the U.S. on an OPT visa?
The duration of stay on an OPT visa depends on the particular visa category. Generally, F-1 students are eligible for up to 12 months of OPT, but some categories of students may be eligible for up to 36 months of OPT.
4. Is there a required minimum period of stay to be eligible for OPT?
Yes, in order to be eligible for OPT, an F-1 student must have been enrolled in a full-time course of study for at least one academic year. The academic year for F-1 students usually consists of two semesters, but may also consist of three quarters.
5. What is the difference between OPT and Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?
OPT is Optional Practical Training. It is a period of up to 12 months of temporary employment for F-1 visa holders related to their field of study. CPT stands for Curricular Practical Training. It is a work authorization which allows F-1 visa holders to gain practical experience necessary in their major field of study. CPT requires that the work experience must be an integral part of the curriculum and required by the school. Unlike OPT, CPT must be authorized prior to the beginning of the employment and the work experience must be related to the student’s degree program.
6. Are there other visa options available after graduation?
Yes, after graduation there are other visa options available for international students. Depending on the individual’s circumstances and goals, they may be eligible for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows them to stay in the United States to continue working in their field of study for up to a year. Additionally, those with specialized skills may qualify for an H-1B visa; alternatively, individuals may consider applying for a Green Card or pursuing an EB-1 visa.
7. What is the H-1B visa program?
The H-1B visa program is a U.S. government program that allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations. The program requires employers to meet certain requirements and provide an appropriate wage for the position. The H-1B visa program allows employers to hire foreign nationals who possess at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in a specialty occupation, including jobs in computer science, engineering, mathematics, architecture, and medicine.
8. How much does it cost to apply for an H-1B visa?
The fees associated with the H-1B visa application process vary based on the specific requirements of the applicant. Generally, the filing fee for an H-1B visa application is $460, plus a $500 Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee, and a $4,000 ACWIA Training Fee for employers with 25 or more employees.
9. How long is the approval process for an H-1B visa?
The processing time for an H-1B visa can vary, depending on several factors, such as workload at the USCIS, the petition’s complexity, and whether it is subject to the H-1B cap. Generally, the processing time can range from as little as 2 weeks to as long as 8 months.
10. Is there a minimum salary requirement for H-1B visa holders?
Yes, there is a minimum salary requirement for H-1B visa holders. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the minimum wage for H-1B visa holders is the higher of either the actual or prevailing wage paid by the employer to other workers with similar skills and qualifications in the geographic area of employment. The minimum wage for H-1B visa holders must not be less than $60,000.00 per year.
11. What is the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program?
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program is a cultural exchange program administered by the U.S. Department of State. It provides foreign nationals with the opportunity to come to the United States to work, study, and travel for a temporary period of time. Through the program, participants are able to take part in a variety of activities, such as taking part in internships, research programs, or training seminars. The goal of the program is to foster understanding between Americans and people from other countries.
12. What are the requirements for applying for a J-1 visa?
The requirements for applying for a J-1 visa vary based on the specific type of J-1 program that the applicant is seeking. In general, applicants must provide proof of a valid J-1 program sponsorship from a designated sponsor; proof of sufficient funds to cover all costs associated with the program; evidence of academic or professional credentials necessary for the program; and proof of medical insurance coverage. Additionally, some applicants may need to prove their English proficiency depending on the requirements of their particular program.
13. How long can I stay in the U.S. on a J-1 visa?
The length of stay on a J-1 visa depends on the type of exchange program you are participating in. Generally, the maximum length of stay is 18 months.
14. Is there an annual limit to the number of J-1 visas issued each year?
Yes, there is an annual limit to the number of J-1 visas issued each year. The U.S. Department of State sets an annual cap on the number of J-1 visas that can be issued each year, which is currently set at 104,700 for the 2020 fiscal year.
15. How long does it take to obtain a Green Card after graduation?
The time it takes to obtain a Green Card after graduation varies depending on the type of Green Card and the individual’s country of origin. Generally, it can take from 6 months to several years, depending on the individual’s circumstances and the availability of visas in their country.
16. What is the difference between a Green Card and Permanent Residence Status?
A Green Card is a physical card issued to those individuals who are granted permanent residence status in the United States. Permanent Residence Status, also known as lawful permanent resident status, is the immigration status of a person who has been given permission to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. This status grants certain rights, such as the right to work, access to healthcare and social services, and allows for family members to join the individual in the U.S. It does not, however, grant citizenship or the right to vote.
17. What are the criteria for obtaining Permanent Residence Status in the U.S.?
The criteria for obtaining permanent residence status in the U.S. include:
-Having an approved petition filed by a family member or employer
-Being sponsored by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
-Having an immigrant visa number available
-Meeting the admissibility requirements of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act
-Meeting all other legal requirements for eligibility.
18. Are there any restrictions on where I can work with a Green Card or Permanent Residence Status?
No. Once you have obtained a green card or permanent residence status, you are allowed to work anywhere in the United States. However, it is important to note that certain occupations may require additional licenses or certifications. It is important to research any applicable requirements before beginning employment in a new field.
19. What other post-graduation visas are available to international students in the U.S.?
Other post-graduation visas available to international students in the U.S. include:
-Optional Practical Training (OPT)
H-1B Visa
J-1 Visa
TN Visa
E-3 Visa
O-1 and O-2 Visas
P-1, P-2, and P-3 Visas
Q-1 Visa
R-1 Visa
20. Can I apply for an extension of my student visa while I am in the U.S.?
Yes, you can apply for an extension of your student visa while in the U.S., as long as you are still enrolled in a valid program and meet all other requirements for the visa. You must submit a new Form I-20, Application for Extension of Stay or Change of Status, to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).