Englishman currently on OPT wanting to marry US Citizen

[Owen White 0]

Hi,

I graduated college at North Carolina in May 2012, and started working with on my OPT in May, which runs out in May 2013.

I have been with my American girlfriend for 3 years, and am planning on getting engaged within a month or so.

My question is, what steps do I need to take to ensure that I can continue to work and stay in the country when my OPT finishes in May, without having to leave the country. Time frames etc, would be very helpful.

Thanks

[canadian_wife 1,826]

Read the guides for both parities living in the US and post your timeframe question in the adjustment of status forum

good luck

[jaycali 415]

Hi,I graduated college at North Carolina in May 2012, and started working with on my OPT in May, which runs out in May 2013.I have been with my American girlfriend for 3 years, and am planning on getting engaged within a month or so. My question is, what steps do I need to take to ensure that I can continue to work and stay in the country when my OPT finishes in May, without having to leave the country. Time frames etc, would be very helpful.Thanks

Once you're married you can file for adjustment of status.

With the adjustment of status package, you may also file for work authorization - This takes about 90 days from filing until you have your new EAD in hand. If your current EAD expires in May, I would file no later than February. You cannot file for adjustment of status before you're married, and you cannot work unless you have your new EAD in hand before your OPT expires.

[aaron2020 11,651]

Hi,

I graduated college at North Carolina in May 2012, and started working with on my OPT in May, which runs out in May 2013.

I have been with my American girlfriend for 3 years, and am planning on getting engaged within a month or so.

My question is, what steps do I need to take to ensure that I can continue to work and stay in the country when my OPT finishes in May, without having to leave the country. Time frames etc, would be very helpful.

Thanks

Get marry and file to adjust your status your status before your OPT expires so yo can get the Employment Authorization Document. That is the only way for you to continue to legally work after May 2013. You must get your EAD before your OPT runs out. If your OPT expires and you do not have your EAD, your employer must fire you because you will not be authorize to work in the US.

It takes about 60-90 days to get your EAD after your wife files to adjust your status. You could also ask for an expedited EAD at a local USCIS office.

If you get marry after Feb 2013, you may not be able to get your EAD before your OPT expires which means you will need to give up your job.

[Penguin_ie 5,995]

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