How to Obtain the OPT F1 Visa Program for Study in America: All You Need To Know
What is an OPT F1 Visa?
The Optional Practical Training (OPT) F1 visa is a program that allows international students to extend their stay in the U.S. and complete internships, cooperative work experiences, or Applied Knowledge Skills programs which will help them stand out in their future career path. The OPT F1 Visa is not a permanent visa. It is a temporary work permit valid for 12 months (36 months for students who got their degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics fields). It is to be noted that the OPT F1 visa remains valid as long as the student remains in valid F-1 status.
The eligibility requirements for an OPT F1 visa are the same as any other non-immigrant visa : you must be at least 18 years old; you must maintain legal status through your university; you must have a valid passport from your home country that does not expire within six months; and you must meet all other criteria for an F1 Visa.
What Are the Benefits of an OPT Visa?
Students who obtain the OPT F1 visa can find work at their field of study. If you work in your field of study, you’re likely to be better compensated and have a leg up on other job seekers who lack experience. You can also use your work experience to create a resume that showcases your talents and helps you stand out among other job seekers. You will get a chance to gain experience in your field of study and learn important job skills that can be listed on your resume or CV. You may also have the opportunity to network with influential people in your field and make connections that could help your career in the future. You may also be able to make enough money to help cover the costs of your education and living expenses while you finish your degree.
How to Apply for the OPT Program?
You must have already completed your education at your home university and accepted the fact that you will not be returning to your home country. You must also have valid F-1 visa status and no pending immigration applications. You must be enrolled in your university’s designated academic program, and you must have already acquired practical knowledge of your field of study. You must also have a degree conferred by your university. There is no specific application period to get an OPT F1 visa. You can apply for it at any time during your stay in the U.S. as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. Before you apply, you must also make sure that you have enough time to complete your application process. Your university, immigration lawyer, and government officials will be assisting you with your application, but you must also have a clear idea of the time that you’ll need for each step. This will help you avoid missing important deadlines, so you will not have to start the process all over again.
Limitations of the OPT F1 Visa Program
– You must have already completed your education at your home university and accepted the fact that you will not be returning to your home country. – You must also have valid F-1 visa status and no pending immigration applications. – You must be enrolled in your university’s designated academic program, and you must have already acquired practical knowledge of your field of study. – You must also have a degree conferred by your university.
Final Words: Is the OPT F1 Program Right for You?
A lot of students think that the OPT program is the way to go if they want to stay in the U.S. after their studies are complete, but that’s not always the case! You must have a full-time job offer from an eligible employer in your field of study to qualify for the OPT program. If you don’t have a full-time job offer from an eligible employer, you can apply for a different type of visa: the H-1B visa. If you’re unsure if the OPT F1 program is right for you, there are a few questions you should ask yourself. Do you have a full-time job offer from an eligible employer in your field of study? Do you have the funds to cover your expenses until your OPT F1 visa is approved? If you can answer “yes” to both of these questions, then the OPT F1 program is likely right for you!