Optional Practical Training (OPT) – New Jersey

What do you mean by OPT in New Jersey ?

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, or OPT, once their degree is obtained, this kind of work permission let F-1 students work in the US. The F-1 Optional Practical Training curriculum is designed to give students the chance to apply the skills and information acquired in the classroom to a professional environment.

What kind of OPT visa? It is important to remember that OPT is not a visa on its own, it is a work authorization awarded to students with an F-1 visa. Students therefore remain in F-1 student visa status even while they are on OPT.

What is OPT in New Jersey?

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

Who is eligible for OPT in New Jersey ?

Students holding an F-1 visa for a minimum period of nine months can apply to US Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) for twelve months of Optional Practical Training Work Authorization. The student's Visa should be a valid one while applying for this. Also, they should

have already opted for a full-time course at any university in the United States. While applying for OPT, the student's presence in the US is mandatory.

What are the types of OPT in New Jersey ?

· 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 is the application process of OPT in New Jersey ?

Students have to submit an OPT request to their school’s international student services (ISSS), receive an OPT I-20, and then file Form I-765 with USCIS within 30 days

Consult your designated school official (DSO) at your university and then start the process. Your DSO will send you the required forms and information to start the application process and assist you in determining whether you qualify for OPT. Your DSO will also send you a new I-20 Form and suggest OPT in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)

Prepare Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). You must send this form to the U.S.Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD Card) which is also called as the OPT EAD Card

Submit your OPT application package to USCIS. Your OPT application package includes duly filled in I-765, Updated I-20 form signed by your DSO, two passport size photographs, Application Fee and any other supporting documents which includes copies of your F-1 Visa, passport and past I-20 forms.’

Once USCIS gets your application, they will forward a receipt notice. It is very important to keep it safe and secured because this is the receipt which is a proof that you have applied for OPT.

USCIS will review your application and if granted, you will receive an EAD Card. During your OPT this card allows you to work legally in the United States. Working before you get your EAD Card is very restricted and can compromise your F-1 visa status. So do start your work after your receive the EAD Card.

What is the OPT duration and extension in New Jersey?

Twelve-month period can be applied as part of initial post-completion and the work start date must be within sixty days after the end of the program. The hours of employment must be a minimum of 20 hours per week, whether paid or unpaid. On the other hand, if your field of study is STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), you can be qualified for a 24 month extension which is known as STEM OPT Extension. To qualify for the STEM OPT extension, the employer must be enrolled in the E-Verify program and the student must apply for the extension before the original 12 month period expires. The F-1 OPT STEM extension gives students useful extra time to obtain experience and get ready for future employment prospects including applying for an H-1B Visa.

What are the key rules for OPT in New Jersey ?

Students on F-1 visa optional practical training have some basic guidelines:

· Full-Time vs. Part-Time: Post-completion OPT has to be full-time; pre-completion OPT can be part-time.

· Unemployment Limits: You may remain unemployed for up to ninety days under post-completion OPT. If you exceed this restriction, you run the danger of losing your F-1 visa status.

· Job Requirement: Any job you take on has to directly correspond to your major field of study.

What should I know about transitioning from OPT to H-1B Visa in New Jersey?

Many students wish to keep working in the United States by switching from OPT to a H-1B Visa. Though it involves sponsorship from a U.S. Company, OPT to H-1B is a typical method used by international Students. You must find employment with a company ready to sponsor you for a H-1B Visa, during your OPT. This shift enables international students to keep working and finally petition for permanent residency sometimes referred to as a green card.