OPT

Jun 123 min read

HR GUIDE: How to change status from H-1B to F-1 (Day-1 CPT)

How to switch from H-1B to Day-1 CPT program? What universities allow Day-1 CPT? Does the employer pay for Day-1 CPT?

Jan 311 min read

Navigating the New H-1B Lottery: Key Changes and Timelines for 2024 (FY2025)

The H-1B lottery season is upon us. Here's all you want to know about the lottery process and beyond. We also talk about some things that...

Jan 30, 20235 min read

2023 (FY 2024) H-1B Lottery Timeline

USCIS announced on January 28, 2023 that the H-1B lottery registration for 2023 (Fiscal Year 2024) will open on March 01, 2023. Details here

Jan 19, 20226 min read

Ultimate Guide to the 2022 H-1B Lottery & Petition Processes

With the lottery season fast approaching, a lot of foreign national employees are looking to understand what it takes to get through the...

Dec 21, 20211 min read

USCIS withdraws rule to award H-1B visa based on higher wages

The DHS has withdrawn a rule that would allow USCIS to award H-1B visas based on higher wages.

Sep 15, 20212 min read

Can an employee work while waiting for OPT or STEM OPT card?

An employee waiting on OPT (12 months) cannot start work but an employee waiting on STEM OPT (24 months extension) can continue working.

Sep 9, 20213 min read

Can I travel on visa this December?

Can I travel on H-1B/OPT/CPT in December? Employees on new/transfer H-1B will have to get visa stamped. Employees on OPT should not risk....

Apr 27, 20211 min read

International Students on F-1 can now file for OPT online

F-1 students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) can now file Application for Employment Authorization (I-765) online.

Apr 5, 20213 min read

Will there be a second H-1B Lottery?

There may NOT be a second H1B lottery this year. Here's why there was a second lottery last year and why there might not be one this year.

Mar 15, 20212 min read

What are my chances of H1B Lottery Selection in 2021 (Cap Year 2022)?

USCIS got 275K applications last year. Employees with an advanced degree from the U.S. have about 39% chance of selection at the lottery.

Mar 10, 20212 min read

Do international students on F1 visa or OPT have to return the COVID relief money

Should I return the money? Short answer. No. If you received the benefit based on your 2019 taxes then you are legally eligible.