How to apply for OPT?
Applying for OPT isn’t an easy process. You always need to be aware of various rules and regulations set by USCIS for F1 visa holders. So you need to know the deadlines, seek the help of an international student center, and know all the requirements to get your OPT application approves. I know it’s a lot, and anyone can easily get confused or miss out on things. But a small mistake can cost you a lot. You might miss out on your opportunity of working in the USA.
So here are a few things you need to know as you apply for OPT:
When to apply?
You can apply for OPT only after you complete at least 9 months of academic studies in a designated school or university of USA. Once you complete 9 months of education in the USA, you are eligible to apply for pre-completion OPT.
You can apply for post-completion OPT 90 days before completing your graduation or at most 60 days after completion of your graduation. Your application won’t be accepted before or after this time period.
On the OPT application, you need to mention the desired start date of your employment. But you need to remember that you cannot start working before receiving EAD (Employment Authorization Document) from USCIS. Also, you must be physically present in the USA for at least 12 months to be eligible to work in the USA. This application for EAD can take longer than expected, so it is always advisable that you apply for OPT. It’s not necessary to have a job in advance to apply for OPT.
If you want to read about what is OPT – Who is eligible for OPT? | OPT Eligibility Please read it now OPTnation is sharing some useful information about What is OPT (Optional Practical Training)?
To apply for OPT, you need to follow the below-mentioned application steps:
Someone from the international student center or an advisor will surely help you in the process, but you need to make sure you keep ready all the important documents and certificates to avoid wasting a lot of time. So here is the list of things you will need.
I-765 Form:
This is one of the most important applications for employment authorization that needs to be submitted to USCIS, to get a work permit. You can download all the required information from the USCIS site to check the process to receive it from your school.
OPT Recommendation Form:
Your school will have a required OPT recommendation form mentioning the start and end date and other specifics of your proposed OPT
$380 Filing Fee:
You will need to pay this amount every time you apply for EAD, usually for post-completion and pre-completion OPT. You can use a personal check, cashier check, or any other method to pay it. If you are paying through a check, write the date of birth, and SEVIS ID number on the front of the check.
Two passport-style photos:
Coloured photos taken within 30 days of filing an application form. Although there are certain specifications in the I-765 form but passport photos will do. Do not forget to mention the SEVIS ID number.
Document Copies:
Not necessary, but if you have documents like Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record Card (Both Front and Back), EAD Card, most recent I-20 (pages 1 & 3) and a passport ID page you will need to submit its copies.
This is all you need to know while you submit your OPT application. It is always advisable to have a discussion with your international student advisor or someone in the international student center about the process of applying for OPT as soon as possible to avoid getting to trouble or miss out on good opportunities.
Also Read:
International Students Guide to Studying in the U.S 