Options after OPT?

[rangers_texas 2]

I have applied for my OPT and it should be here anytime now. I have a job lined up and will start when I receive the OPT. My question is what are my options after the OPT expires? If I was to apply for the 5 year work visa (h1b?) would I have to stop working or can I apply for that while on OPT and make the start date right after my OPT expires?

Thank you.

[Harsh_77 718]

I have applied for my OPT and it should be here anytime now. I have a job lined up and will start when I receive the OPT. My question is what are my options after the OPT expires? If I was to apply for the 5 year work visa (h1b?) would I have to stop working or can I apply for that while on OPT and make the start date right after my OPT expires?

Thank you.

Your employer applies for H1, you as individual dont apply for H1.

Once your H1 comes thru you can work on H1 and you no longer need to be on OPT, you cannot specifically say on what date you want your H1 to be activated.

Edited January 10, 2013 by Harsh_77

[rangers_texas 2]

Your employer applies for H1, you as individual don’t apply for H1.

Once your H1 comes thru you can work on H1 and you no longer need to be on OPT, you cannot specifically say on what date you want your H1 to be activated.

So can my employer apply for that at anytime during the OPT? Also once that is applied for is my OPT still valid? Can I still work under my OPT while the H1 is pending?

[Harsh_77 718]

So can my employer apply for that at anytime during the OPT? Also once that is applied for is my OPT still valid? Can I still work under my OPT while the H1 is pending?

Yes employer can apply for H1 anytime as long as the visas are available. Depending on the company specially like non profit and them don't have the H1 cap.

Most employer fall under the H1 cap... you can work on OPT until your OPT is valid or you hear either way from USCIS on application.

[rangers_texas 2]

Yes employer can apply for H1 anytime as long as the visas are available. Depending on the company specially like non profit and them don't have the H1 cap.

Most employer fall under the H1 cap... you can work on OPT until your OPT is valid or you hear either way from USCIS on application.

I will be an assistant professional at a golf course, should I have any problems with that? Should I hear from the USCIS about the OPT or will I just receive it in the mail?