STEM OPT- Can I work as independent contractor (unpaid) and dont hurt my status?

[LauraMoon 0]

Hi Everybody,

 

First time user! I have a really specific question that I hope to get some light on:

 

I am an international student and I have been through OPT since early 2016 through early. I recently applied for a STEM OPT since I got hired by a company on E-verify. 

While I was on OPT I started working as Independent Contractor at another company where I was not getting paid for my work, but being offered a small percentage of the net sales once the product we are working on is released. This company is not E-Verified and has no plans to be in the system.

 

My question is this: Can I keep working for this company even though I am on a STEM OPT? Will this affect my ability to work with my actual employer? Even though I have discussed with them my fears they keep saying is ok to keep working for them. I do like the project even though I am not getting paid, but I don't want to do anything that may hurt my STEM OPT Has anyone been in the same situation? Any help will be very much appreciated!

Thanks in advance.

[f f 725]

doing the work is no issue since you can call it a hobby but getting money for it even later may be a gray area. the question you need to find out is can you work at two companies simultaneously while only one of them sponsors your opt?

looking around a bit it seems like you are able but you must report them both to your dso even if it is unpaid.

https://internationalcenter.umich.edu/students/f1-students/on-opt

 

good luck

[randomstairs 303]

You can work for multiple employers but they do need to be on e-Verify. You can work as a volunteer in your field of study (internship) but make sure that you don't violate any labor laws.  

Edited January 31, 2017 by randomstairs