OPT

Latest in OPT

Switching Jobs on OPT: Essential Rules for F-1 Students in 2025

You can change employers during OPT or STEM OPT, but must report changes to your DSO within 10 days. Regular…

Maintaining F-1 Status Over Winter Break: Do’s and Don’ts

During Winter break, F-1 students must keep SEVIS active, confirm I-20 and travel signatures, and carry essential documents. OPT/STEM travelers…

PAUSE Act Advances: Freeze on H-1B, OPT and All U.S. Immigration

H.R. 6225, the PAUSE Act, would impose an open‑ended freeze on most immigration, terminate H‑1B, cancel OPT, and codify steep…

F-1 OPT Corrected Notices Spark Anxiety Among Post-2025 Filers

USCIS issued corrected receipt notices saying the 180-day automatic employment extension does not apply to OPT filings after October 30,…

Are F-1 Visas from 19 Ban Countries Still Being Processed?

The June 9, 2025 proclamation suspended visa issuance for 19 countries, halting most new F-1 visas. Twelve countries face full…

Can Afghan, Iranian, and Venezuelan Students Renew Visas Now?

A June 9, 2025 State Department order halted new visas for Afghans and Iranians abroad without valid visas and paused…

No Confirmed J-1 Crackdown Under Trump Policies in November 2025

Despite widespread November 2025 rumors, no official U.S. policy has newly targeted J-1 Exchange Visitor Visas. Existing vetting rules remain…

Travel Risks and OPT Outcomes for Students from Countries Under Review

Although OPT procedures are unchanged, students from reviewed countries face greater scrutiny and travel risk. USCIS mails EADs only within…