What is OPT?
OPT is an abbreviation for Optional Practical Training. It is a student work permit for international students in the U.S. It is issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to foreign students who have completed their academic studies in the U.S. and are interested in working in the U.S. for a period of time.
Who is Eligible for OPT?
Any international student who has completed at least one academic year of full-time study in the U.S. and is currently maintaining valid F-1 student status is eligible to apply for optional practical training.
What is the Difference Between Regular OPT and STEM OPT?
Regular OPT is available to any foreign student who has completed their academic studies in the U.S. and is interested in working in the U.S. for a period of time.
STEM OPT is an extension of regular OPT. It is available to students who have completed a degree in a field of Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics and have an offer of employment from a U.S. employer.
How Long Does Regular OPT Last?
Regular OPT is valid for a period of up to 12 months. This period of time is intended to provide foreign students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in their field of study.
How Long Does STEM OPT Last?
STEM OPT is valid for up to 24 months. This period of time is intended to provide foreign students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in their field of study and to gain employment in the U.S.
Are There Any Restrictions on Working Hours During OPT?
Yes, there are. During regular OPT and STEM OPT, students are limited to working a maximum of 20 hours per week. Additionally, students are not allowed to work more than 40 hours per week during their vacation and/or holiday periods.
Are There Any Restrictions on Travel During OPT?
Yes, there are. During regular OPT and STEM OPT, students must remain in the U.S. for the duration of their OPT. Students are not allowed to travel outside the U.S. for more than 5 months during the OPT period.
Can OPT be Renewed or Extended?
No, OPT cannot be renewed or extended. However, students who have completed their OPT period may be eligible to apply for an H1B visa.
What is the H1B Visa?
The H1B visa is a temporary work visa which allows foreign workers to work in the U.S. for a period of up to 3 years. It is a popular visa amongst foreign students who have completed their OPT period and wish to continue to work in the U.S.
How to Apply for OPT?
- The student must first submit a completed OPT application to the International Office at their school.
- The student must then submit a completed I-765 form to the USCIS.
- The student must also submit any required documents to the USCIS.
- Once the application is approved, the student will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This document will serve as proof of their OPT status.
- The student must then obtain an offer of employment from a U.S. employer.
- The student must then submit the EAD and offer of employment to the USCIS.
- The student must then wait for their OPT to be approved.
Conclusion
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a student work permit for international students in the U.S. It is issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to foreign students who have completed their academic studies in the U.S. and are interested in working in the U.S. for a period of time. Regular OPT is valid for a period of up to 12 months, whereas STEM OPT is valid for up to 24 months. During OPT, students are limited to working a maximum of 20 hours per week and they must remain in the U.S. for the duration of their OPT. OPT cannot be renewed or extended. However, students who have completed their OPT period may be eligible to apply for an H1B visa.