Hello,
I am currently on F1 OPT and will soon be applying for STEM OPT. My OPT started on 19th Feb 2024. I work for a research organization and they would be able to apply for my H1B exempt once I am done with my application for STEM OPT. I graduated in December 2023 and already lost one chance at H1B lottery as I joined my new job in July 2024. Ultimately, I need to work for corporate America and I will need an H1 B non-exempt visa.
My question is whether I should go for H1B exempt visa right now or continue to look for an employer who can sponsor my H1B non-exempt visa since I still have two more attempts left. On one hand, my job is good, pays me well and can sponsor H1 B exempt visa but on the other than, if I do so, I will no longer be in F1 status and can't switch to a for-profit organization unless they put my name in the lottery and I get selected. If I am on F1 status, at least I can switch to any organization and wait for March for them to enter my name in the lottery. One downside of my current job is that I am being funded through a grant and it has a runway till July 2026. Is it advisable to stick to my current job and go for the H1B exempt visa?
I have been stressing out as my second shot at H1B lottery is nearing and I should take a decision soon (and potentially look for other employers). I would be glad if I can be advised in whatever way possible.
Thank you!
I am currently on F1 OPT and will soon be applying for STEM OPT. My OPT started on 19th Feb 2024. I work for a research organization and they would be able to apply for my H1B exempt once I am done with my application for STEM OPT. I graduated in December 2023 and already lost one chance at H1B lottery as I joined my new job in July 2024. Ultimately, I need to work for corporate America and I will need an H1 B non-exempt visa.
My question is whether I should go for H1B exempt visa right now or continue to look for an employer who can sponsor my H1B non-exempt visa since I still have two more attempts left. On one hand, my job is good, pays me well and can sponsor H1 B exempt visa but on the other than, if I do so, I will no longer be in F1 status and can't switch to a for-profit organization unless they put my name in the lottery and I get selected. If I am on F1 status, at least I can switch to any organization and wait for March for them to enter my name in the lottery. One downside of my current job is that I am being funded through a grant and it has a runway till July 2026. Is it advisable to stick to my current job and go for the H1B exempt visa?
I have been stressing out as my second shot at H1B lottery is nearing and I should take a decision soon (and potentially look for other employers). I would be glad if I can be advised in whatever way possible.
Thank you!