Employment Immigration: Can You Travel During OPT? Introduction Students in F-1 status may have questions about whether they can leave the United States while participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT). International travel during OPT is generally possible, but returning to…

Employment Immigration: Timeline for OPT Applications Introduction Optional Practical Training (OPT) can provide eligible F-1 students with an opportunity to gain practical work experience related to their field of study. Because the OPT process involves coordination with a school’s designated…

Understanding Eligibility for OPT Introduction Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an employment authorization option available to certain F-1 students who want practical experience related to their academic field. Understanding the basic eligibility requirements before applying can help students avoid misunderstandings…

How to Avoid Delays With OPT Introduction Optional Practical Training (OPT) can allow eligible F-1 students to gain practical work experience related to their field of study. Because OPT applications involve specific eligibility requirements, filing procedures, and timing considerations, avoidable…

How to Prepare a Strong OPT Case Introduction Optional Practical Training (OPT) can provide eligible F-1 students with an opportunity to gain practical work experience related to their field of study. Although the process may appear straightforward, small errors in…

Frequently Asked Questions About OPT Introduction Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows eligible F-1 students to gain practical work experience related to their field of study. Because OPT involves specific eligibility requirements, application procedures, and employment restrictions, students should understand the…

Employment Immigration: Common Mistakes When Applying for OPT Introduction Optional Practical Training (OPT) can give eligible F-1 students an opportunity to gain practical work experience related to their field of study. However, the application process involves specific requirements and deadlines.…

Employment Immigration: What You Should Know About OPT Introduction Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an important employment benefit available to many F-1 international students in the United States. It can allow eligible students to gain practical work experience directly related…

Employment Immigration: What Happens After Filing for an Employment Authorization Document? Introduction Filing Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is an important step for many immigrants seeking permission to work in the United States. After filing, USCIS reviews the application…

Should I File a Writ of Mandamus if My USCIS Case Is Delayed? Introduction Waiting for a USCIS decision can be frustrating, particularly when a case has remained pending for an unusually long period. In some circumstances, a federal lawsuit…