F1 - OPT traveling advice

[davidgrace 0]

Hello everyone,

This is my first time posting here. I am going to share my situation/plan:

I'm currently on F1 VISA (valid until 2018) and graduating December 10th 2016 (although program end date on I-20 is 2019).

I am travelling back home on December 12th for Christmas. (for about 1 month)

Coming back to the US around January 10th-11th

I am planning to apply for OPT January 15th, 35 days after graduation.

Reason to apply for OPT after graduation: to have more time to find a job after Christmas.

My question is: Can I reenter after graduation since I haven't applied to OPT yet with my visa and I20 as other times?

I'm just trying to spend Christmas at home.

Thank you in advance.

David

[canadian_wife 1,822]

Have you spoken to the DSO at your school? My SEVIS was cancelled when I graduated making my student visa programme end date moot.

If you do not organize this BEFORE you leave, I doubt you'll be admitted back on an expired F-1 status.

good luck

[F4visa 4]

You cannot leave until you have gotten a job with your opt, please speak to you DSO.

[F4visa 4]

In order for your opt to be valid you must remain the country until your opt is approved and you found a job. If you leave before you cannot re enter on f1 visa . You must note also if your opt is approved and you leave before getting a job you cannot re enter on your f1 visa. Please speak to your DSO , they can advise you on this.

[NancyNguyen 1,657]

Never heard of anyone applying OPT that late. Usually we apply 2 months before graduation. You need to talk to your DSO asap about updating your I-20.

Keep in mind your F-1 status and I-20 will be updated once you graduate. They always give you plenty of time to finish your study so dates on visa and I-20 are not actual number for you to lean on.