Key Takeaways:
- Eligibility requirements for the STEM OPT extension include a completed STEM degree, related employment, and enrollment in E-Verify.
- The application process involves obtaining your DSO’s endorsement, completing Form I-765, compiling necessary documents, and submitting your application.
- Timely application submission is important to avoid employment authorization gaps, and reporting changes is crucial for maintaining legal status. Seek assistance for any challenges.
Understanding the STEM OPT Extension Process
If you’re a foreign student with a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) from a U.S. institution, you may be eligible to stay in the country for an additional 24 months under the STEM OPT extension program. This opportunity is pivotal for gaining practical experience and integrating further into your professional field. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the OPT application process to secure your STEM employment authorization with ease.
Eligibility and Preparing to Apply
Before delving into the application steps, check that you meet these essential criteria for the STEM OPT extension:
- You must currently be on a valid OPT period stemming from a completed STEM degree.
- Your degree should be from an accredited and SEVP-certified institution.
- The employment opportunity must relate directly to your field of study.
- Your employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program.
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, you’ll need these key documents for your application:
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
- Copy of your STEM degree certificate
- A passport-style photo
- Copy of your current OPT Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Form I-20, endorsed by your Designated School Official (DSO) specifically for the STEM OPT extension
- Any previously issued CPT or OPT I-20s
How to Apply for the STEM OPT Extension
Step 1: Get Your DSO’s Endorsement
Your journey starts with consulting your DSO, who will assist you in determining eligibility and provide an endorsement on your Form I-20. This endorsement is a must-have for your application.
Step 2: Fill Out Form I-765
Complete Form I-765 with great care, ensuring accuracy. This form is your formal request for employment authorization.
Step 3: Compile Your Documentation
Gather all of your documents, including Form I-765, endorsed Form I-20, degree certificate, and photo. Make sure everything is signed and dated.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once all your documents are ready, mail your application to the appropriate U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) address. Check their official website for the most current submission details.
Step 5: Monitor Your Application Status
After your application has been submitted, you’ll receive a receipt from USCIS. You can use this receipt number to track your application status online.
Timelines and Deadlines
Timing is crucial. You can apply for the STEM OPT extension up to 90 days before your current OPT authorization expires but no later than the expiry date itself. Processing times vary, so apply early to avoid any gap in employment authorization.
After Submission: Expectations and Outcomes
Once USCIS receives your application, expect to receive a receipt notice within a few weeks. Following that, you may also be asked to provide biometrics or additional documentation. If approved, USCIS will send your new EAD card that will allow you to continue working in the United States for 24 additional months under STEM OPT.
It’s essential to report any changes in your address, employer, or other relevant information to your DSO and update your Form I-765. Compliance with reporting requirements is crucial to maintain legal status.
Navigating Challenges and Seeking Assistance
If complications arise with your application, such as requests for additional evidence or unforeseen delays, consider consulting with an immigration attorney or reaching out to your university’s international students office for guidance.
Conclusion: Embrace the Opportunity
The STEM OPT extension is not just a chance to further your career – it gives you the unique experience of being part of the American workforce and contributing to its innovative landscape. Follow these steps with attention to detail, and you’ll be well on your path to extending your stay in the United States.
For official instructions and the latest immigration updates, always refer to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) direct website.
So that’s the scoop on the STEM OPT extension! Take advantage of this golden opportunity to stay in the U.S. and level up your career. Just remember to dot your i’s and cross your t’s when it comes to the application process. If you want more detailed info and some extra geeky tech talk, head over to visaverge.com. They’ve got you covered! Good luck, my fellow tech enthusiasts!
FAQ’s to know:
FAQ 1: How do I apply for the STEM OPT extension?
To apply for the STEM OPT extension, you need to follow these steps:
- Get your Designated School Official’s (DSO) endorsement on your Form I-20, as it is required for your application.
- Fill out Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, accurately and with great care. This form serves as your formal request for employment authorization.
- Compile all necessary documentation, including the endorsed Form I-20, a copy of your STEM degree certificate, a passport-style photo, a copy of your current OPT Employment Authorization Document (EAD), and any previously issued CPT or OPT I-20s. Ensure that everything is signed and dated.
- Mail your application to the appropriate U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) address. Be sure to check their official website for the most up-to-date submission details.
- Monitor your application status using the receipt number you receive from USCIS after submission.
Remember to apply early, as processing times vary. You can submit your application up to 90 days before your current OPT authorization expires, but no later than the expiry date itself.
FAQ 2: What are the eligibility criteria for the STEM OPT extension?
To be eligible for the STEM OPT extension, you must meet the following criteria:
- Currently be on a valid OPT period obtained after completing a STEM degree from an accredited and SEVP-certified institution.
- The employment opportunity must be directly related to your field of study.
- Your employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program.
Meeting these essential criteria will make you eligible to apply for the STEM OPT extension and further your practical experience in your professional field.
FAQ 3: What should I do after submitting my STEM OPT extension application?
After you have submitted your STEM OPT extension application, there are a few things to expect and do:
- Expect to receive a receipt notice from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within a few weeks of submission.
- You may be asked to provide biometrics or additional documentation after the initial receipt notice.
- If approved, USCIS will send you a new Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card, allowing you to continue working in the United States for an additional 24 months.
- It is crucial to report any changes in your address, employer, or other relevant information to your Designated School Official (DSO) and update your Form I-765 to maintain legal status.
It’s advisable to keep track of your application status using the receipt number provided by USCIS and comply with reporting requirements to ensure a smooth process. If you encounter any complications or delays, consider seeking guidance from an immigration attorney or your university’s international students office.
What did you learn? Answer below to know:
- True or False: To be eligible for the STEM OPT extension, your employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program.
- What is the first step in applying for the STEM OPT extension?
- When can you apply for the STEM OPT extension in relation to the expiration of your current OPT authorization?
