Opt-visa expires, what should i do?

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andrew1985

New Member
Hi!

My OPT-VISA that I got after studying in the US, expires for me soon. I have a girlfriend and a job here so I have no plans of leaving. Is there any way of extend it or apply for something else? What happens if I just stay? Will I get arrested or banned from the US?

Thank you!

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You do not have the option of just deciding that you are not going to leave. You need to find an employer to file for an H1B for you - or leave. You were granted the privilege of studying in the US; you need to obey the laws. You were obviously not worthy of the trust placed in you by the VO at the consulate if you will knowingly vow to disregard the laws of your host country.

If you are illegally present, you can be picked up, detained (jailed), subjected to immigration legal proceedings and deported. All of these possibilities will not be to your liking. DSOs are much more diligent about reporting out of status students to ICE/DHS than in the past.
 
How about applying for a tourist-visa? Or leave and then come back on a tourist-visa?


Concerned4us is really concerned. FYI I'm more than worthy the visa, I spend so much money in this country through school, living and paying tax. Don't be disrespectful towards immigrants who wants to start a new life in the so called "Land of opportunities". I wish I was aloud to be a part of those opportunities. By the way, is this a forum with participants working for the US government?
 
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B-2 is not a long term solution. I gave you the best advice. You have a US degree. Find a US employer. If you cannot, your options are very limited.

A US degree was NEVER a guarantee for a job or the opportunity to remain in the US. In applying for a student visa, you basically stated you intended to return to your home country otherwise it would not have been granted.

Millions of people want to live in the US; there is not opportunity for everyone. Depending on the country of your birth, you may apply for the diversity visa lottery.

As a guest in the US, you have the duty to abide by US laws just as guests in your country must abide by the applicable ones there. Disagreeing with them does not change your obligations. If you violate the law - especially if you announce it on a public forum, expect to be taken to task.
 
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