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Post-Study Work
Opportunities in the USA

OPT is a program that allows international students with F-1 visas to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after graduation. For STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) graduates, there is an option to apply for a 24-month extension, resulting in a total of up to 36 months of work authorization. OPT provides a unique opportunity for students to gain practical experience in their area of expertise, apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, and build a professional network in the United States.

Eligibility

  • You must maintain a valid F-1 status at the time of your OPT application.
  • You must have completed at least one full academic year of study in the USA.
  • You can apply for OPT up to 90 days before your program end date and no later than 60 days after your program end date, as indicated on Form I-20.
  • You must be physically present in the USA when you submit your OPT application.
  • The work must be directly related to your major field of study.
  • You must not have used more than 12 months of full-time CPT at the same academic level.

H-1B Visa

The H-1B visa program allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in speciality occupations that require specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. This visa is often pursued by international students who wish to continue working in the U.S. after their OPT period ends. The H-1B visa is initially granted for up to three years and can be extended for a maximum of six years. It serves as a pathway to long-term employment and potential permanent residency.

Eligibility

  • You must have a job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor your H-1B visa.
  • The job must be in a speciality occupation that requires specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
  • The employer must file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor, demonstrating that they will pay the prevailing wage and provide working conditions that will not adversely affect other similarly employed workers.
  • The employer must then file a Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, with USCIS on your behalf.
  • There is an annual cap on the number of H-1B visas issued, so timely application is crucial. Certain employers, such as universities and research institutions, are exempt from this cap.
These opportunities are crucial stepping stones for international students seeking to enhance their professional skills, gain substantial work experience, and establish a successful career in the USA.
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