what to do when my OPT expires

S

sohn50

New Member
I am currently working in the US in OPT. My EAD card shows that it expires in Febuary 2009. My company wants to support me for a working visa, but the issue is what should I do during the process?

My understanding is, if I apply next year and get accepted for H1-B visa it will be effective starting October 2009. What shall I do during the 8 month? I do wish to stay in the US, and so does my company.

Is going back to F-1 student status the best way to stay? Is there a chance that I may work in order to support myself during the period?


Please kindly give me any advice.
Thank you.
 
If your degree is one of the STEM degrees and your employer participates in everify you may qualify for a 17 month extension in your OPT.
I don't think you qualify for a cap-gap extension because your H1B petition will not be done before expiry of OPT, but you can check with your school's advisor.
 
I'm in the art/media field and it doesn't seem to fall in the STEM degrees.

Thank you for mentioning the cap-gap extention. I've forgotten about this.
Yes, my OPT will expire 02/15/09 which is before April 1st, but I do have my grace period. I've read this: "If the student was still in his or her 60-day grace period, the student is eligible for an extension of status, but not of work authorization."

http://www.nafsa.org/regulatory_inf...opt_rule_updates/f_1_cap_gap_for_f_1_students



So now what I need to know is, will I be able to apply for the cap-gap extension before my grace period ends! Can I get the H1-B application receipt number as soon as I apply on April 1st? Or do I have to wait for it to be mailed to me?


I will appreciate any advice.
Thank you.
 
I think you are covered by grace period til April, however, I'm not very sure cap gap is applied next year.
They did it a few years ago and it was one time.
I know they did the same this year, but I don't recall well if it was implemented permanently.
 
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