Optional Practical Training (OPT) - Florida

What do you mean by OPT and steps for OPT Florida?

OPT means Optional Practical Training especially for those students who are enrolled or about to complete their degree in the United States of America and can work either during their vacation or leave term or even after completion of their course and their status of immigration would be F1. OPT helps these students to avail a temporary employment authorization and one can explore and experience the work over there during this period. Many students on F1 visas would like to take temporary work assignments relevant to their studies. It's an opportunity to experience work as well as earn.

It’s a great opportunity for international students to experience their learning practically through employment and also build confidence to continue their studies. Optional Practical Training is a paradigm shift from theory to practical approach at work.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) in Florida follows the same general guidelines as in other states, but its always better to check with the specific institution for any additional requirements.

Consult your Designated School Official (DSO), schedule an appointment with your DSO to discuss your eligibility and gather necessary forms. Enrol in and complete the self-enrolment OPT certification course. Save your certificate. Meet your academic advisor or graduate program coordinator to request an OPT recommendation letter. Submit your request via the Portal. An International Center Advisor will review your request and send the recommendation to SEVIS to generate a new I-20.

Complete the Application for Employment Authorization (Form I-797) and submit it to the U.S.Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once it is approved, you will receive an EAD card which allows you to work in the United States. While an employment offer is not required to apply, you should be actively seeking employment once your EAD is issued.

What is STEM OPT extension in Florida?

If you are in a STEM field, you may be eligible for a 24-month extension. The application process for the extension is similar but requires additional steps, such as having your employer enrolled in the E-Verify program and completing a Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students.

What is the unemployment limit for OPT in Florida ?

You are allowed up to 90 days of unemployment during your 12-month OPT period and an additional 60 days during the STEM extension period.

When should one apply for OPT in Florida ?

As an F-1 Student, you should apply for OPT atleast 90 days before the desired start date of employment. You can apply as early as 90 days before the official closing of the semester in which you intend to graduate. This period should allow enough time for OIAP and USCIS to review your application.

What are the types of OPT in Florida ?

· Pre-completion OPT (part time or full time during school breaks). Part time or full time during the student’s annual vacation and at other times when school is not in session, if the student intends to register for the following semester. Part time while school is in session or part time or full time after completion of graduate course work requirements excluding a thesis or dissertation

· Post-completion OPT (full time after graduation) / after completion of the course of the study

What should you follow on reporting employment and keeping your SEVIS record updated for OPT Florida ?

Keeping your SEVIS record updated and reporting employment are very critical parts of maintaining your legal status while on OPT. You need to report your employer’s name, address, your job title, employment start date and how the job is related to your field of study. Many schools offer an online portal where you can report employment information directly to your DSO. You can also check in the SEVP portal.

If you change jobs, you must report your new employer’s details to your DSO within 10 days. If you end a job, you should report the end date of your previous employment. Employment can include paid employment, unpaid internships, volunteer work and multiple jobs as long as they are related to your field of study.

You should ensure to keep your SEVIS record updated whether it is address change or legal name change etc. Employment related details should also be updated. Every six months, you must submit a validation report to your DSO and this report should confirm the accuracy of your current employment information, personal address and employer address.

What has to be updated in SEVP Portal in OPT Florida ?

If your school uses the SEVP portal, you will receive an email with instructions on how to create an account. The portal allows you to report changes in personal and employment information, view your information and receive alerts for reporting requirements. Ensure you keep your login credentials secure and report any issues with access to your DSO.

What is the unemployment limits for OPT Florida ?

You are allowed a maximum of 90 days of unemployment during your initial 12 month OPT period. For STEM OPT extensions, you are allowed an additional 60 days of unemployment.