F1 to h1b without opt. My Sevis also indicates a change of status.
F1 to h1b without opt They are considered to be in cap-gap period. Changing your visa status from H1B to F1 if you are facing a massive layoff. Check the requirements, Process and time required. Dec 30, 2024 · Learn about updates in the DHS rule for H-1B visas, helping F-1 students stay employed and maintain legal status during their transition to H-1B. I have question about changing from H1B visa to F1 visa. Secure your future with ImmiTalks! The O-1 visa is a good alternative for you if your application is not selected in the h1b lottery. Report Change of Status from F-1 to H-1B If you have changed your status from F-1 to H-1B, you must provide specific documentation to OIE by submitting the " Change of Status from F-1 (OPT/STEM OPT) " e-Form on the MyOIE portal. A few alternative pathways to H1B Visa are employment-based Green Card categories like EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3, family-based Green Card, Diversity Visa Lottery, EB-5 Investor Visa, and asylum or refugee status. Learn about eligibility requirements, the application process, timing considerations, and tips for a successful transition to working in the United States after graduation Sep 6, 2024 · Hello, Greetings of the day. Nov 8, 2023 · Navigate the transition from F1 to H1B visa with our guide, detailing eligibility, application step, and essential tip for successful process. This is referred to as “dual intent” and is allowed under U. By securing a job with a cap-exempt employer, you can obtain an H-1B visa outside the lottery and then work concurrently for a cap-subject employer. I'm a Clinical research professional with one year work experience and masters in clinical research. Employers are also oftentimes unclear about the procedure to be followed to enable them to retain the services of talented foreign national students once they have completed OPT. Oct 1, 2024 · H4 to F1 Visa: OPT Eligibility Without Full Two Years? No, you don’t need to complete two full years on an F-1 visa to be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT). Jan 23, 2024 · Q: What if my current F-1 OPT or STEM OPT extension expires before my H-1B cap petition is approved? A: Individuals in the U. I already have a Master's degree from a US university and I have used the OPT which I received from Masters. if you don't register for classes and don't do CPT, etc. Ensure a smooth transition to H-1B status with these practical tips. The O-1 visa is a good alternative for you if your application is not selected in the h1b lottery. Therefore, you can work and study legally with your Day 1 CPT programs. Feb 5, 2025 · Navigate the process of switching from H1B to F1 and back, ensuring compliance and understanding key requirements for a smooth transition. Jul 28, 2025 · Our F-1 to H-1B transition guide breaks down the cap gap process, work authorization rules, and documentation requirements for students and hiring managers. Here I am currently in US in F-1 status and I have two approved H1B petitions. What are the advantages and disadvantages of both. Learn about eligibility, application processes, pros, and cons to make informed decisions about your career. So even without the expectation of post-OPT visa sponsorship, one can be in disadvantage because companies can hire PRs or citizens without these limitations. My Sevis also indicates a change of status. Why do you want to do Consular Processing? If it is working on F-1 for 3 more months without activating H-1B, consider the risks: Losing H-1B if employer outlook changes on position before then Stamping dates availability, timely stamping without 221-g Delayed GC Do CP only if you have strong reasons for delaying (say you have 2 more years of OPT and want to take advantage) Aug 12, 2019 · I believe that, as long as your F1 status (including grace period) lasts past when your H1b petition was filed in April (and it has), if your F1 status ends in the meantime (e. —and in some cases keep working—until their H-1B starts. Yes, you can go from OPT to Green Card without H1B. There was a small hiccup where my application was sent to the wrong USCIS office. Students in F1 status often get confused about the process from Optional Practical Training (OPT) to H-1B status so that they can continue their employment in the U. Once your I-140 is approved, you can renew it every year. According to this article If I am on my F1 visa and I haven’t Apr 28, 2025 · The transition from F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) to H-1B employment can be challenging, mainly when there is a gap between the expiration of OPT and the start of H-1B status. Employers must register for the H-1B lottery and file approved LCAs. Jul 18, 2025 · Discover the step-by-step process for transferring from F1 to H4 visa, including its advantages and disadvantages. visas that allow you to work, including F-1 (OPT/CPT), H-1B, L-1, O-1, and J-1 visas. Learn the step-by-step process to transition from F1 to H1B visa stamping, including key requirements, timelines, and tips for a smooth process. Mar 19, 2016 · To gain full voting privileges, This is a bit weird and complicated question. I am currently an F1 student in US doing my MS. The company was e-verified so I went on OPT and even extended under STEM extension. Post-Completion OPT extends your F-1 status although you are no longer an enrolled student, and also extends the F-2 status of any dependents who are with you. But don’t worry, I’m breaking them down in a way that makes it easy to understand. Apr 11, 2024 · Discover the comprehensive guide for international students transitioning from F1 to H1B visa status. Apr 1, 2020 · Since, I will not be eligible for a second OPT, I wanted to know the process of transfer from F1 to H1B directly. after you complete your academic program with permission to work in your field of study. Our "Change of Status to F1, Explained" page guides you through the process if you need to switch from an H1B, H4, F2, B1/B2, or L1 visa to an F1 status. S. Learn the steps to transition from an F1 visa to a green card, covering eligibility, process, and required documentation. Jan 5, 2024 · Learn everything about the H-1B Cap-Gap Extension: eligibility, work authorization, travel guidelines, and applying for OPT extension. Regarding your second question, you need to meet BOTH conditions to be considered a resident alien under the substantial presence test. If you want to start working prior the H1b start date - you'll have to apply for OPT and then get the OPT EAD before you can start working. Jul 2, 2021 · Many international students wish to transition to an H-1B visa when their OPT is finished. I graduated in 2009 and accepted a job offer. You must, however, have been enrolled in a full-time academic program for one full academic year under any valid status before applying for OPT. pursuant to F-1 status with an OPT or STEM OPT extension could potentially have their EAD/work authorization extended beyond the expiration date if their registration is selected in the H-1B cap lottery. —including F-1 Visa, OPT, STEM OPT, H-1B Visa, Green Card, H-4 Visa, and more. My attorney mentioned it is risky to do a H1B transfer without having an active H1B status (working with the current organization as of October 1st). As of January 17, 2025, the cap-gap extension now lasts until April 1 of the following year—a significant improvement from the previous October 1 cutoff Curious about switching from F1 to H1B? Find out the eligibility requirements and how to apply for an H1B visa successfully. Your question about why H1b is safer is this: You get 6 years as opposed to three years on OPT + STEM. But, i wanted to study more, so after 1. Mar 13, 2021 · Real H1B Visa Interview Questions and Answers- New H1B, H1B Transfer/Extension, F1 to H1B, OPT to H1B H1B VISA INTERVIEW QUESTIONS By Deb Pati last updated on March 13, 2021 There used to be a time when H1B visa interview questions used to be by the book. The Employer should be in good standing to explain with the USCIS that the worker will be paid 95% of prevailing Wage of that specific occupation and also need to assure with that Jan 23, 2007 · US Immigration, Citizenship and Visas - F1 to H1B transition without going through OPT - Hello, I am currently on F1 visa pursuing my PhD. Please ensure you read the rules before posting or commenting. The tricky part is for students, who applied for H1B with a pending/ approved Change of Status (COS) petition with USCIS. Can I change my F1 visa to H-1b before graduation? Yes, a student on an F1 visa can get an H1B while still studying. Learn how to navigate the H4 visa transfer process smoothly. This allows you to maintain employment while your cap-subject employer continues entering the lottery until you are selected. Pros and cons of each of them, how it all works. Is filing an H-1B directly after graduating a possibility, if I find a sponsor? Sep 3, 2025 · Steps that the F-1 foreign student as well as the U. If the company hires you for full time, they have obligatory responsibility to sponsor you on H1 which is cost for company. F1 to H1B without OPT 02-10-2017, 01:39 PM Hello, Are you an international student on an F1 visa looking to transition to an H1B work visa in the United States? Here’s what you need to know. Students should monitor OPT expiration and submit required documents promptly. The OPT period can be used to apply for a change status from F-1 to H-1B Visa. employer will have to take to obtain an H-1B nonimmigrant visa for work in the United States. Jul 25, 2024 · Whether you’re proceeding with the shift from F1 to H1B, exploring work permits like OPT and CPT, or understanding the various visa options, each step is critical to ensure a smooth and successful transition. Recent surges in H-1B applications, particularly from certain groups engaging in abuse of the system, have made the process more competitive and unpredictable. I will be Cap exempt upon graduation. The question is: can you transfer to an H-1B visa from an F-1 status without going through optional practical training (OPT) or graduating? Straight from F-1 to H1-B without OPT? Hi everyone, I’m graduating in June and have accepted a full time job offer starting September this year. 5 years remaining on H1B. Jan 24, 2025 · The following information addresses common questions by individuals in H-1B nonimmigrant status, particularly related to applying for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, job changes or terminations, international travel, and dependent family members. Jan 17, 2025 · The “cap-gap” period starts when an F-1 student’s status and employment authorization expires and, unless terminated, ends on April 1 of the fiscal year for which the H-1B status is being requested or until the validity start date of the approved petition, whichever is earlier. The entire situation also leaves employers uncertain about how to retain the services of their talented F1 OPT Visa May 5, 2022 · An in-depth discussion on everything you need to know about changing from F1 to H1B status. 5 years working with them, I left the job to join as a student again. You are in an authorized period of post-completion OPT (including the STEM OPT extension) on the date your potential employer files your H-1B petition. Jul 23, 2024 · In this article, we will try to explain the typical process involved in converting from an F1 Visa to an H1B Visa, with and without Optional Practical Training (OPT), and key things to keep in mind during the change of status (COS) within the USA from F1 Visa to H1B Visa. This might be a jump since an H-1B worker is considered a professional and you will have limited practical training experience under the F-1 visa. Students must first obtain an OPT recommendation I-20 from OIS. Jan 27, 2021 · Furthermore, as long as you are properly maintaining your F1 status, you can continue your F-1 and OPT until the change of status is approved. Mar 19, 2016 · If your F1 status is terminated prior to the H1b start date - you'll have to either go out of country, or change the status to something else (B2, probably). Foreign students can transition from F1 to H1B Visa by participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT) while studying or after graduation. Jan 6, 2011 · F1 to H1B Visa transition without OPT | US Immigration forums hosted by the Law offices of Rajiv S. If you think you have the required skills to get hired by a US employer and you qualify for an O-1 visa, you should apply for it instead of waiting. Mar 19, 2025 · For the individuals who intend to have an F1 to H1B change of status, without moving to a B2 to F1 change of status or H1B to F1 change of status, this guide offers the knowledge required to successfully make the transition. Jul 30, 2019 · Immigration laws allow the alien/ international student/ worker to move from one visa category to another, with few exceptions, like from H4 visa to H1B or F1 visa to H1 or L1 to H1B, without needing to go out of the country and getting the visa stamped for the new category. Maintain F1 status RFE Hi Guys wondering if people have faced my situation before: I got RFE saying that my OPT expires before Oct 1st so I have to prove to maintain F1 status during that time. Always confirm details with your school's international student office. Jul 18, 2025 · Learn how to transfer from H1B to F1 Visa, explore advantages and disadvantages of changing visa status, and understand the transfer process. Many people who do work through one of these nonimmigrant pathways eventually transition to permanent resident pathways, and eventually U. on Sep 20th on F1/L1, then the person will be on H1 status from October 1st. Hi, I am asking this question on behalf of my friend who is completing his 2nd MS this year in STEM degree. and, in certain cases, to keep working once their F-1 status or OPT (Optional Practical Training) has ended but before when their H-1B status starts on October 1st. Used premium processing. Without H1B your mobility, both professional and personally, can be severely limited, but it is definitely possible. Nov 25, 2024 · However, without transitioning to H-1B, students risk losing legal status once their F-1 or OPT expires. immigration law. Can i go for change of status changes F1 to H1B? , COS - after OPT is possible ? or COS will happen directly ? Jul 23, 2024 · Complete details on F1 Student working options in US like CPT, OPT, Day 1 CPT. Sep 3, 2024 · Explore the key differences between F1 OPT, F1 CPT, and Day 1 CPT for international students in the US. OPT: Optional Practical Training or OPT is a period during which a foreign student in valid F1 status is allowed to accept employment in a field directly related to his or her major field of study. Jan 24, 2025 · Others (for example, F-1 OPT, H-1B, L-1 and O-1), also known as “nonimmigrant” pathways, allow you to temporarily live and work in the United States. Hi! If I get my H1B approved, do I need to go get it stamped somewhere in the US? And will I received an EAD card to replace the one I got through OPT or the H1B approval paper should be enough for me to work? OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a benefit and extension of F-1 student status that permits you to remain in the U. I am in middle of F1 visa ( graduate in 2024-MAY ), but My H1B got picked up in last month JULY 2023 . O-1 visas allow foreign nationals who have extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, arts, or athletics or who have shown Questions and answers about F-1 visas and F-1 status in the U. Get yourself a lawyer for consultation or filing I-485 if possible. Jun 17, 2019 · If an F1/L1 holder that has an approved H1b with change of status effective Oct 1st returns to the U. Sometimes, we even share a lighthearted joke 😊 We encourage all members to: Ask questions, share experiences, and contribute to Feb 3, 2025 · Working Without Pay on F-1 OPT: Navigating the Boundaries of Employment and Compliance International students in the United States, and their employers, often navigate complex employment regulations under the F-1 visa. To change from F1 to H1B, students can either change directly to H1B or take the F1 to OPT to H1B path. We are a HEAVILY moderated subreddit. We take no responsibility for the information presented here. I see no reason to not file this year, any extra time you enter the lottery, the chance of you getting it increase. I have not worked in OPT and will be in school till 30th September. H1B visa transfer from F1 without OPT Ask Question Asked 7 years, 3 months ago Modified 7 years ago Students on F1 visas often get bewildered about changing from an F1 OPT Visa to an H1B status. If I graduate in May and find an employer willing to sponsor me, can they file a H1b petition (Cap exempt) on my behalf and can I start working immediately? F1 to H1B without OPT 02-10-2017, 01:39 PM Hello, Students in F1 status often get confused about the process from Optional Practical Training (OPT) to H-1B status so that they can continue their employment in the U. I will be joining my employer on 5th October. Is it okay to say I don't need sponsorship if I just want to work during my OPT period? (without applying for H1B) Some jobs explicitly state that all OPT students fall in the category of "needing sponsorship", I'm talking about the jobs that do NOT explicitly state that in the application. How filed, FAQs. The interviews were often over in 5 minutes or less. I am still on F1 student visa (I am not graduating anytime soon). After graduating from an undergraduate or graduate program, many international students on F1 visa hope to adjust their status from F1 to H1B visa status. Many caught up in that effort were on OPT, and had to leave their jobs or risk violating laws about working without legal authorization. This guide explains the H1B to F1 change of status process in detail and the USCIS rules you need to follow. Explore the F1 to H1B transition, including cap-gap extension details and travel options to ensure a smooth process for your visa change. Jul 9, 2025 · Transitioning from F‑1 student status (typically via OPT) to an H‑1B work visa is a key milestone for international students. Apr 12, 2024 · To accomplish this, you can change your visa status from an F-1 visa to an H-1B visa. Feb 4, 2025 · Direct application to these categories from an F-1 visa is rare without prior U. Jul 18, 2025 · Learn how to transfer from F1 visa to H1B1 visa, and understand the advantages and disadvantages of the transfer process. Aug 27, 2013 · Hi, My standing: I got my H1b Approved recently. Feb 13, 2015 · F1 Visa/Status: The F1 is a nonimmigrant student classification that allows foreign nationals to pursue education in the United States. Apr 11, 2025 · Since your F1 days don't count toward the substantial presence test (for the first 5 calendar years), and your H1B days alone don't reach 183 days, you would be considered a nonresident alien for this tax year. Jan 24, 2025 · Differences between H1B Change of Status(COS) filing vs Consular Processing. If your H1B is approved via consular notification, you can re-enter US on your F1 visa provided your OPT is active and H1B hasn't been stamped. OPT is not a visa; rather, it is a type of employment benefit for F-1 students who are maintaining their visa status. Although "cap gap" is usually used in the context of OPT, where someone whose OPT ends Jan 17, 2025 · H1B site visit made legal, No work location itinerary required, Education degree to be directly related to specialty occupation, maintenance of status proof required. " The H-1B Cap Gap Extension lets eligible F-1 students stay in the U. job offer or return to their home country with an expired F1 visa post OPT completion. I got an offer and my Employer is filing H1-B for me ahead of my joining the company (also, I didn't get my joining date). This relationship is verified when changing to H-1b or permanent residency in the US. Customer: I am on my F1 OPT visa and will be signing up for a second masters degree this July. Apr 11, 2024 · So, your OPT visa is ending and you still haven't been approved for an H1B visa - what do you do? Check out this complete guide for making the move from an F1 visa to an H1B visa! Feb 10, 2025 · If your OPT is ending and you were not selected in the H-1B lottery, you may still have a way to work in the U. Jun 10, 2015 · I had H1B visa before within the last 6 years and I have 2. ), you can get a "cap gap" extension of your F1 status until October 1. What’s the F-1 to H-1B Transition? First, let’s clarify what these visas are. Traveling while on OPT or OPT STEM Extension In general, an F-1 student on post-completion OPT or STEM OPT may travel outside the United States temporarily and be readmitted to resume F-1 status and employment for the remainder of the period authorized on his or her EAD card. Depending on when the OPT expires and when the H-4 EAD is filed, it may be possible to continue working without interruption. Start your journey today! The Employment based Green Card process can be initiated any time. Although "cap gap" is usually used in the context of OPT, where someone whose OPT ends Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an employment authorization that allows an F-1 student to work in a position directly related to their field of study after completion of academic studies. Learn about eligibility, application processes, and key differences to help you choose the best visa for your career in the U. His case below: Did his first MS in non-STEM fiel 3 days ago · My organization has promised me to give a severance for the next two months (which will end before my H1B start date: October 1st, 2020). Nov 2, 2025 · Learn how to convert your F1 student visa to an H1B work visa in the USA with this step-by-step guide. The OPT Cap-Gap Extension A Cap-Gap extension is a regulatory provision which extends an eligible F-1 student's status to bridge the gap between the end of F-1 OPT or OPT STEM work authorization and start of a cap subject H-1B status, allowing the student to remain in the US during the "gap. People applying for H1B to F1 change of status have many questions. USCIS closely scrutinizes maintenance of status, particularly for those who have engaged in Oct 25, 2024 · Discover a complete guide to U. 1. My fall semester starts today August 27, 2013. For the same salary if I can hire a usc why the company prefer F1-OPT candidate Jul 18, 2025 · Wondering about OPT validity after H1B approval? Learn about the regulations surrounding OPT after H1B to understand your immigration status. Nevertheless, it is a possibility. His case below: Did his first MS in non-STEM fiel I'd like to take a break from work before starting school without having to leave the country. TO FIND WITH AN H1B SPONSORING EMPLOYER You need to get a job offer from an H1B sponsoring Company in order to apply for your H1B Visa, it doesn't matter whether you are applying for H1B right after your F1 or OPT. If you are eligible for the cap gap extension, your proof that you are still in F-1 status and that you may continue OPT (if applicable) is a note on your Form I-20, “Certificate of Hi, I am asking this question on behalf of my friend who is completing his 2nd MS this year in STEM degree. I am eligible for Cap-exempt petition but can my employer directly apply for H1B or do I need to get an OPT first ? Apr 11, 2024 · If you want to change the purpose of your visit while in the United States, you (or in some cases your employer) must file a request with USCIS on the appropriate form before your authorized stay e Jan 13, 2025 · Certain F-1 students who receive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees may apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion optional practical training (OPT). The Employment based Green Card process can be initiated any time. Can you can go from F1 to OPT to green card, and skip h1b? As soon as the PERM/I-140 process is finished, it is said that you can apply for green card right away even without going through h1b. My Question: Do I have to register for fall se Jul 11, 2025 · Effective January 2025, the F-1 to H-1B visa process includes updated Form I-129 usage, a clarified specialty occupation definition, continued cap gap benefits, and stricter enforcement. Mar 22, 2014 · F1 to H1B without OPT/CPT (Do I need to notify my university about my H1B filing? 03-22-2014, 07:18 PM Hello everyone, Very glad to be a part of this forum. I am seeking your expertise to navigate my status transition and ensure compliance with immigration laws. ICE eventually restored students’ status after widespread legal challenges, but not before some chose to leave the country pre-emptively, fearing deportation. This guide covers the full process, from employer petition to visa stamping – with timelines, forms, interview prep, and useful tips. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. after their studies, and the H-1B visa is one of the most popular work visas available. I have following questions. It works in theory but companies would want to hire people who will stay for more than 3 years, since onboarding and training is expensive. So, employers can sponsor F-1 students for a green card through EB-3 without going through H-1B and the lottery? If you have H1B, and use it for less than 6 years, you can switch to F1 and then refile H1B without being subjected to cap, ie not having to enter lottery agai . Learn how to successfully transition from H1B to F1 visa, with all the steps explained clearly. citizenship. Jun 26, 2020 · H1B consular processing is better if you want to control H1B start date when moving from F1, OPT, H4EAD. Aug 11, 2025 · Understanding the shift from F-1 student status to H-1B worker status is crucial and it has various components that can be complex. g. Welcome to the Largest F1 Visa Group on Facebook! Most of our conversations revolve around the career, education, and lifestyle of international students and visa holders in the U. For this reason, the H-1B remains a practical solution for many. . So I think that this means I have to get an CAPGAP extension I-20 to show them, so I check with DSO for the capgap extension i-20. At this point, they are left with two options: to apply for an H-1B visa after receiving a U. If your H1B is stamped, your H1B gets activated and you will lose your F1 status. So I was wondering if I can change my visa status from f1 to h1b and be part time student or I should wait until graduation, get my opt and then apply for the h1b? can the company apply for the H1b now? This will be my second master's in the US and I've used my OPT+STEM-OPT during my first master's. Making the Transition from F-1 to H-1B This fact sheet is designed to address issues commonly encountered by F-1 students working under optional practical training (OPT) card who are beginning the H-1B petition process. However, one of the most critical aspects of a successful H-1B change of status (COS) application is proving that you have maintained valid F-1 status throughout your stay. As recommended by my DSO, I worked with an immigration lawyer. By understanding the requirements, planning ahead, and leveraging your skills and education, you can increase your chances of successfully making the leap from international student to professional in the United States. It is important for F-1 students making the transition to H-1B status to understand both the H-1B process and all of the special issues that accompany the H-1B visa Feb 18, 2025 · The h1b cap gap extension is a policy that allows F-1 students to remain legally in the U. Oct 21, 2025 · But many students want to transition to working in the U. Discover the process and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of making the move. Feb 5, 2012 · Hi, I am on my F1 visa. How many F1-OPT students really work without expecting any H1B sponsorship? When a position is created/opened it will have fixed band of salary. work experience or exceptional qualifications, which is why most students path to a green card looks like this: F-1 H1B or O-1 visa EB Visa. I came in 2008 for an MS. Require Visa Status Change Expertise? May 1, 2024 · Transitioning from an F1 student visa to an H1B work visa is a complex but achievable process. Oct 18, 2025 · Looking to transition from an F1 to an H-1B? Find out everything you need to know about the process, including F1 to OPT to H1B, how long it takes, and more. Jul 18, 2025 · Learn how to transfer from an F1 visa to an H1B visa. The start date of my H1b is October 1, 2013. See how we can help you make the transition here. important question : f1 to h1b without opt | US Immigration forums hosted by the Law offices of Rajiv S. Jul 18, 2025 · Answer: Some important considerations when transitioning from an F1 visa to H-1B include maintaining your legal status by applying for OPT if your F1 status is close to expiration, understanding the H-1B lottery system used to select applicants for processing, and knowing the difference between changing status and obtaining a visa stamp. I had u Jun 17, 2019 · If an F1/L1 holder that has an approved H1b with change of status effective Oct 1st returns to the U. I am currently on F1 STEM OPT working with Company A. Comparison of OPT vs CPT. The student must not have exceeded the maximum OPT unemployment or OPT STEM Extension unemployment time and must not Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a type of work authorization that permits F-1 students to gain work experience in their field of study while in the United States. Change of status gives new i94 attached to i797. I am looking to understand how getting a 2nd masters degree and possibly a 3rd masters degree will affect my H1B application (if it were to get picked in the future) / green card processing in the future. I had u Jan 31, 2025 · Transitioning from an F-1 student visa to an H-1B work visa is a significant milestone for many international students in the U. Update: My H1B to F1 change of status is approved. Khanna, PC for the community. May 1, 2025 · Maintain F-1 Status and Apply for Cap-Gap Extension (if applicable) If your OPT or STEM OPT expires before your H-1B start date (typically October 1), you may qualify for a cap-gap extension. Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows the foreign student to gain experience with an employer in their field of study. True that you’ll not pay additional taxes on OPT a few years, but there are cases where one had to travel to different country just because they were never selected in the lottery. Sep 2, 2022 · What is the issue to renew a Driving License during OPT Cap Gap? Most of the DMVs in the US issue Driver’s licenses for F1 students on OPT until the end of their OPT or STEM OPT. I have been sponsored by Company B for an H1B visa under consular processing, which has been approved. As others have pointed out, your employer has 90 OPT and STEM OPT: work must directly relate to your degree of study – an H-1b also requires you have the specific kind of degree required by that position. ruquc amkxa ijbrrm ldvlo ywvgof bshb hjcrgg kjqaihkf fbffk socakm oxwrrq yeap zpsz ljuzd fpmf