As an international student in the USA, working after graduation can be a daunting and confusing process. However, there are several options available that allow international students to work and stay in the USA legally after graduation. In this article, we will explore these options and provide tips for finding work as an international student in the USA.
Option 1: Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary form of employment related to a student’s field of study, allowing international students to work and stay in the USA for up to 12 months. Post-graduate international students can only apply for post-completion OPT, and to be eligible, the employment must be related to their field of study. Students must also be deemed eligible for the program by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
It is important to note that there are some limitations to OPT. For example, there is a cap on the number of visas available, and students must apply for OPT within 90 days of graduation. Additionally, OPT does not guarantee long-term employment or a pathway to permanent residency.
Option 2: STEM OPT Extension
STEM OPT Extension is a 24-month period of temporary training that directly relates to an F-1 student’s program of study in an approved STEM field. To be eligible for this extension, the employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program, and the student must be a STEM (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics) degree graduate. Students can find the complete list of STEM-designated degrees on the USCIS website.
As with OPT, there are some limitations to STEM OPT Extension. For example, students must apply for the extension before their current OPT expires, and the employment must be related to their field of study. Additionally, like OPT, STEM OPT Extension does not guarantee long-term employment or a pathway to permanent residency.
Option 3: H-1B Visa
The H-1B visa allows international students to transfer their F-1 student visa status to an H-1B status, allowing them to work and live in the USA for up to 6 years with the help of sponsoring US employers. To be eligible, the student must qualify as an experienced candidate for the position they are aiming for and must be in the same field of study. The employer must also file a labor condition with the Department of Labor, ensuring fair work hours and wages.
It is important to note that the H-1B visa has strict limitations and is subject to a cap on the number of visas available each year. Additionally, changing jobs within the 6-year period will result in having to reapply for the H-1B visa.
Option 4: Green Card
The green card allows non-natives in the USA to stay permanently, find employment anywhere in the USA, receive financial benefits, and permanently reside in the country. As an international student in the USA, it is automatically easier to receive a green card permit. However, it is still high in demand and can take several years to obtain.
There are several ways to apply for a green card, such as being sponsored by an employer, being sponsored by relatives who are business owners, participating in US military services, and receiving parent/child sponsorship. International students can visit the USCIS website for an in-depth green card eligibility guideline.