OPT
Optional Practical Training rules for F-1 graduates — 12-month OPT, 24-month STEM extension, application timelines, employer requirements, unemployment limits, and cap-gap provisions.
Top questions about OPT
Answers from VisaVerge guidesWhat is the impact of USCIS policy changes on Indian students applying for OPT and H-1B visas?
Due to green card backlogs, especially for Indian nationals, the process from F-1 student visa to OPT to H-1B work visa can take many years.
Read: Indian Student Shares Raw Reality of Studying and Surviving in USHow can international students prepare for potential changes in educational policies while on OPT?
Students should consult with their DSO, seek legal advice, develop backup plans, build a strong network, and stay informed through official resources to navigate policy changes effectively.
Read: Managing OPT Employment Amidst Changes in Educational Policy: A Guide for International StudentsWhat are some steps international students should take to manage employment amidst OPT policy changes?
International students should consult university resources, seek legal advice, connect with peers, stay updated through USCIS and SEVP websites, and be proactive in informing their employers about potential changes.
Read: Navigating OPT Changes: Managing Employment Amidst Educational Policy ImpactsWhat risks do Fall 2025/2026 students face regarding OPT in the U.S.?
Fall 2025/2026 students may face risks such as changes to 'duration of status' for F-1 students, a reduced grace period after study, and potential delays or denials in obtaining post-completion OPT due to proposed stricter rules by DHS.
Read: Fall 2025/2026 Study Plan: Prepare for OPT Uncertainty with BackupsWhat should international students and employers do during this period of uncertainty regarding OPT and STEM OPT programs?
Students should ensure their job descriptions align with their degree and keep detailed records organized for possible requests from the Designated School Official (DSO), SEVP, or USCIS. Employers should maintain clear reporting workflows and retain evidence of supervision, projects, and evaluations to reduce compliance risk.
Read: U.S. Reviews Optional Practical Training and STEM OPT Under America First Policy
How the 2025 Government Shutdown Impacts F-1 Visa, OPT, and CPT
Fee-funded USCIS, consular operations, and SEVIS will keep processing F-1 visas, OPT, and CPT during the 2025 shutdown, but DOL pauses (LCAs) and E‑Verify interruptions may slow H‑1B transitions. Students…
From F-1 to H-1B: A Practical Guide for U.S. Employment
New rules add a $100,000 fee for new H-1B petitions starting September 21, 2025, and shift selection toward…
Banks and Grassley Urge End to OPT Program, Trump Administration
Banks and Grassley pressed the administration to end OPT, which grants F‑1 graduates post‑study work (12 months plus…
F-1 OPT Student Trapped in Fraud: How to Exit Safely
Federal agents are conducting unannounced employer checks to expose fake OPT jobs and sham training plans. USCIS, ICE…
F-1 OPT Travelers to India Face Re-Entry Anxiety, Docs Scrutiny
Rising re-entry anxiety is causing Indian F-1 students on OPT to postpone trips home. Inconsistent border treatment—even with…
Thanksgiving on Campus for International Students: Housing and Dining
F-1 and J-1 students staying on campus for Thanksgiving should register housing early, expect limited dining and services,…
Common OPT/CPT Mistakes That Risk F-1 Status and How to Avoid
Working before the EAD start date or not reporting employment can trigger SEVIS termination. CPT is school-approved; OPT…
Navigating F-1 to H-1B: Tax Residency and Payroll Traps
October 1 H-1B start dates change tax residency and payroll: FICA exemption ends, Social Security and Medicare withholding…
ESPP and Stock Options: When Salary Becomes Capital Gains
Equity pay shifts tax character across stages: ESPP discounts and NSO bargain elements taxable as ordinary income at…
India–U.S. Tax Reporting: A Practical Guide to Avoid Double Taxation
Differences in residency rules and tax years can cause double taxation for Indians in the U.S. The DTAA…