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.
Paul Gosar pushes to end Optional Practical Training for students
The OPT program permits international students to work in U.S. fields related to their studies. Despite challenges by Paul Gosar through H.R. 2315, the program remains legal and crucial for…
F-1 OPT Students warned by DHS over missing employer updates
DHS resumed strict enforcement in 2025 requiring F-1 OPT students to report jobs within 10 days. Failure leads…
Optional Practical Training faces stricter checks for foreign graduates
OPT permits F-1 students to work up to 12 months post-graduation, with a 24-month STEM extension. In May…
US Tech Companies Reduce Hiring of H-1B Visa Holders and OPT Graduates
H-1B visa approvals declined sharply among US tech firms, amid over 300,000 layoffs and new immigration rules taking…
Indian visa applications to Turkey and Azerbaijan drop sharply after diplomatic row
A 42% drop in Indian visa applications to Turkey and Azerbaijan occurred after diplomatic tensions, especially among young…
STEM OPT Crisis leaves international students facing visa status loss
In 2025, U.S. STEM OPT faces unprecedented SEVIS terminations and visa denials. Administrative mistakes, employer non-compliance, and minor…
Visa Violations Risk Rises Without Proper Work Authorization for International Students
CPT and OPT allow international students in the U.S. to gain professional experience but require strict compliance with…
F-1 Students: How to Work Legally This Summer with OPT or CPT
F-1 Students must get CPT or OPT approval for summer off-campus jobs—paid or unpaid. CPT is school-approved; OPT…
EB2 green card process can begin while on OPT, experts say
OPT holders may start the EB2 green card process with employer support. Approved I-140 doesn’t skip the H-1B…
F-1 Students: Summer Work Rules for OPT and CPT Explained
F-1 students seeking summer off-campus work must use CPT or OPT and get proper approval first. Each program…