Topic: Are you unemployed during OPT? read this
It is very easy to be unemployed in this economic downturn. This may help some of you: United States of America (Press Release) November 3, 2008 -- F-1 OPT International Students Currently on or About to Begin Post-Completion OPT
On April 8, 2008, a new rule was published that affects F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) in three different areas.
*Expanded Definition of OPT: Traditionally, OPT has been defined as employment that is related to the student's degree major and appropriate for the degree level. That remains in place, however, the government has expanded the types of activity that qualify as OPT. OPT may be in any of these forms:
1. working for one or multiple employers (short or long term)
2. working on a contractual basis
3. working as a self-employed business owner on a full-time basis (with evidence of the proper business license)
4. working through an agency
5. volunteering or holding an unpaid internship (as long as the position does not violate any labor laws).
Post-completion OPT must be at least 20 hours of activity per week.
* Unemployment not to Exceed 90 days
http://www.free-press-release.com/news/200811/1225695408.html |
Topic: Does everyone get a later OPT date?
Don't worry about that date. Your start date is NOT the date you filled on your application. It is the date the card is sent to you. Just wait. you will have a full 12 month opt whenever they send the card to you. |
Topic: 90-day unemployment allowed?
It is really sad that there is this stupid 90 day limit. Even if you have a Citizenship in this economic hardship time, it is very difficult to get a job. If you are having such a very tiny window to look for a job with a limited time (1 year) then you can imagin the difficulty. They have to realize this and at least remove this 90 day nonsense.
I think it may not be that strict as long as your school says you have been employed. I also heard that your prof can help if he/she emplyes you? not sure but I think there is no requirement that says you have to earn money to be on opt. |
Topic: OPT pending, two months passed after graduation, what to do?
I got mine after 3 months! So I think you should wait and you are perfectly legal as long as you have a case in USCIS - it could be ANY case as long as it is pending. You are just fine. |
Topic: How long it takes to receive EAD Card after 'Approval Notice Sent'
I recieved mine just two days ago in the mail but when I check status it was still pending. now it changed. |
Topic: travel on opt
I think the first 12 month period is conditional in that you must have a job. If you couldn't get a job within 3 months of your OPT start date, you will have to leave. Correct me if I'm wrong guys. And the next STEM extention is conditional in that you must be employed while you are applying for STEM ext. This is made especially if you appled for H1B and you didn't get approval within that time period. In anycase it could be difficult to get back if you don't have a job secured first. |
Topic: Start date of OPT
I think they will stick to the date you applied for, but I am not 100% sure. others comment. The sooner you get out of the international office and get it to USCIS the better for you...especially if you have a potential job waiting. Some employers tend to be a little agressive once they offer you and want you right away. |
