If you are on Optional Practical Training (OPT), your immigration status is F-1 student status.
Understanding Your F-1 Status While on OPT
While engaging in Optional Practical Training (OPT), you are still considered to be in F-1 student status. This means that although you may have completed your academic coursework, your immigration designation remains consistent with that of an international student.
Key aspects of maintaining your F-1 status during OPT include:
- Visa Usage for Travel: For any international travel during your OPT period, you will continue to use your existing F-1 visa stamp for re-entry into the United States.
- Purpose of OPT: OPT allows F-1 students to gain practical experience directly related to their major area of study.
Maintaining F-1 Status on OPT
To ensure you maintain your F-1 student status throughout your OPT period, it is crucial to adhere to specific regulations set by the U.S. government. Failure to comply can result in the termination of your status.
Here are the primary requirements for maintaining F-1 status while on OPT:
- Employment Directly Related to Your Major: You must be employed in a job or jobs that are directly related to your major and level of study. This ensures the practical training aligns with your academic background.
- Actively Seeking Employment: If you are not yet employed, you must actively seek employment directly related to your major and level of study. There are limits to the cumulative number of days you can be unemployed during your OPT period.
By meeting these requirements, you ensure continuous compliance with immigration regulations and maintain your lawful F-1 status while gaining valuable work experience in your field.
