F-1 Student Marrying US Citizen but need to start work in September 2011

[September2011 0]

So, I am an F-1 Student who will graduate in May 2011, take the bar exam in July 2011 and will likely start working full time in September 2011. My question is: If I get married now (September 2010), will I have the necessary documents to start work in September of next year? Or should I just wait to get married and file for something like an OPT first?

My boyfriend and I have been dating for over 4 years and we are going to get married, but the question is just - when? I would rather get married ASAP, but I don't want to be in limbo still next year not able to start my job because I don't have the necessary documents. Right now, I have a SSN that I use for working, does anyone know if this number will change or can I use this while my application is pending approval?

I would love feedback from anyone that can help! If anyone has recently gotten married while they were on an F-1, any information from your experience on how long it all took would be great.

Thanks.

[canadian_wife 1,822]

I'd get married sooner than later to avoid any speculation that you are getting married to stay in the country (can happen if married too close to the end of a visa expiration)

Your SSN is for life. You'll need the proper documents to work (EAD applied for after you marry and file your AOS)

First thing is to marry, then your 'then' husband will file the I-130, the I-485, G-325A and all the necessary documents for work and travel and supporting evidence

Good luck

[meijie 9]

So, I am an F-1 Student who will graduate in May 2011, take the bar exam in July 2011 and will likely start working full time in September 2011. My question is: If I get married now (September 2010), will I have the necessary documents to start work in September of next year? Or should I just wait to get married and file for something like an OPT first?

My boyfriend and I have been dating for over 4 years and we are going to get married, but the question is just - when? I would rather get married ASAP, but I don't want to be in limbo still next year not able to start my job because I don't have the necessary documents. Right now, I have a SSN that I use for working, does anyone know if this number will change or can I use this while my application is pending approval?

I would love feedback from anyone that can help! If anyone has recently gotten married while they were on an F-1, any information from your experience on how long it all took would be great.

Thanks.

I AOS-ed from a F-1 and got my green card in about 3 months. Most people that applied around the same time I did in May 2010 got their green cards in August-September 2010. So, I would say most likely you will get your GC in time if you get married and apply for AOS in the next few months. That way you won't waste $300ish dollars applying for OPT too.

[Harsh_77 718]

Wht.... you have to pay $300 for OPT now?

I dont remember paying that much when I got my OPT.

[Stanley Hermosill 1]

Wht.... you have to pay $300 for OPT now?

I dont remember paying that much when I got my OPT.

Big surprise here... the OPT fees have increased: http://international.utk.edu/students/news.php?PK=149