Top 300 daily Remote and onsite OPT jobs
If you are an international student in the US, you may have heard about OPT jobs. OPT, or Optional Practical Training, is a program that allows international students to work in the US after completing their studies. It can be an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience and earn money. However, before you apply for an OPT job, there are several things you need to know. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to OPT jobs, including what they are, how to apply for them, and what to expect.
Table of Contents
- What are OPT jobs?
- Types of OPT jobs
- Eligibility for OPT jobs
- Applying for an OPT job
- Finding an OPT job
- Duration of OPT jobs
- OPT job restrictions
- OPT job requirements
- OPT job reporting requirements
- OPT job extension
- Taxes and OPT jobs
- OPT job vs. H1B visa
- OPT job success stories
- OPT job challenges
- Conclusion
1. What are OPT jobs?
OPT jobs are employment opportunities available to international students in the US who have completed their studies. The OPT program allows students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months (or 24 months in some cases) without a work visa. The purpose of OPT is to give students the opportunity to gain practical experience in their field of study, apply their knowledge, and develop new skills.
2. Types of OPT jobs
There are two types of OPT jobs: pre-completion OPT and post-completion OPT. Pre-completion OPT allows students to work part-time or full-time while they are still enrolled in school, while post-completion OPT is available after the student completes their degree. Post-completion OPT is further divided into two categories: regular OPT and STEM OPT.
3. Eligibility for OPT jobs
To be eligible for an OPT job, you must be enrolled in a degree program at an accredited US institution and have completed at least one academic year of study. You must also be in good academic standing and maintain your F-1 status. Additionally, you must apply for OPT before you graduate or within 60 days of your graduation date.
4. Applying for an OPT job
To apply for an OPT job, you must first obtain a Form I-20 from your school’s international student office. You will then need to submit Form I-765, along with the required documents and fees, to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It is essential to apply as early as possible, as the processing time for OPT applications can be lengthy.
5. Finding an OPT job
Finding an OPT job can be challenging, as you will be competing with other international students and US citizens. However, there are several resources available to help you, including your school’s career center, job fairs, and online job boards. You can also network with alumni and professionals in your field of study.
6. Duration of OPT jobs
The duration of OPT jobs is up to 12 months for regular OPT and up to 24 months for STEM OPT. If you have completed a degree in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) field, you may be eligible for an additional 24 months of OPT. However, you must meet specific requirements, including working for an employer enrolled in E-Verify and having a qualifying STEM degree.
7. OPT job restrictions (continued)
your field of study. You cannot work for an employer who is not enrolled in E-Verify or who has a history of violating labor laws. Additionally, you cannot be unemployed for more than 90 days during your OPT period, or you risk losing your status. Finally, you must report any changes in your employment status or address to your school’s international student office.
8. OPT job requirements
To maintain your OPT status, you must meet certain requirements. You must work at least 20 hours per week for a regular OPT job and at least 20 hours per week for a STEM OPT job. You must also report any changes in your employment status, including job title, job description, and employer’s name and address. Additionally, you must report any changes in your residential address to your school’s international student office within 10 days of the change.
9. OPT job reporting requirements
As an OPT student, you have several reporting requirements. You must report any changes in your employment status or address to your school’s international student office within 10 days of the change. You must also submit an annual self-evaluation to your school’s international student office, detailing your employment status and progress. Additionally, you must report any travel outside of the US to your school’s international student office.
10. OPT job extension
If you have not used your full OPT period for any US jobs, you may be eligible for an extension. To qualify for an extension, you must have completed a degree in a STEM field, be employed by an E-Verify employer, and have a qualifying STEM degree. You can apply for an extension up to 90 days before your current OPT period expires.
11. Taxes and OPT jobs
As an OPT student, you are required to pay federal, state, and local taxes on your income. You will need to obtain a Social Security Number (SSN) to report your earnings to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). You may also be eligible for tax deductions and credits, such as the standard deduction and the Lifetime Learning Credit and you can also find opt jobs for international students in every US states.
12. OPT job vs. H1B visa
OPT jobs and H1B visas are both employment opportunities available to international students in the US. However, there are several differences between the two. OPT jobs are available to students who have completed their studies and allow them to work for up to 12 months (or 24 months for STEM OPT) without a work visa. H1B visas are available to individuals who have a job offer from a US employer and require sponsorship from that employer. H1B visas are also subject to annual caps, and the application process can be lengthy.
13. OPT job success stories
Many international students have found success through OPT jobs. They have gained valuable work experience, developed new skills, and expanded their professional networks. Some students have even been able to secure full-time employment with their OPT employers or other US companies.
14. OPT job challenges
While OPT jobs can be a great opportunity for international students, they can also present challenges. Finding an OPT job can be difficult, especially in competitive fields. Additionally, OPT jobs are temporary, and students must return to their home countries or find alternative employment after their OPT period expires.
15. Conclusion
OPT jobs can be an excellent opportunity for international students to gain practical experience and earn money in the US. However, before applying for an OPT job, it is essential to understand the eligibility requirements, application process, and reporting requirements. By following the guidelines and making the most of the resources available, you can make the most of your OPT experience and set yourself up for success.
FAQs
- Can I work part-time on OPT?
Yes, you can work part-time on OPT as long as you work at least 20 hours per week. - Can I change employers on OPT?
Yes, you can change employers on OPT, but you must notify your school’s international student office of any changes in your employment status. - Can I work for a startup on OPT?
Yes, you can work for a startup on OPT as long as the company is enrolled in E-Verify and meets the other eligibility requirements. - How long does it take to receive an EAD card for OPT?
The processing time for an EAD card can vary, but it typically takes 90 days or less. - Can I apply for an OPT job before I receive my EAD card?
Yes, you can apply for OPT jobs before you receive your EAD card, but you cannot start working until you have received your EAD card and your OPT start date has arrived.
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