Post Study Work Visa USA

Indian students frequently seek employment in their field of study after completing their studies in the USA. Several types of work visas and programs are available for this purpose, including:

• Optional Practical Training (OPT) 
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

These visa options offer Indian students a pathway to gain work experience in the U.S. after completing their studies. Each program has its own set of eligibility requirements, timelines, and application processes, and understanding these details can help ensure a smoother transition from student status to professional employment in the U.S.

Let's understand each type of Visa in Detail.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) Visa

OPT and How It Works: OPT is a program that allows international students in the US with F-1 visas to work for up to 12 months in a field related to their degree program. It’s an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience in the U.S. after completing studies.

Irrespective of whether their field of study is classified as non-STEM or STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). It allows eligible students to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months in a role directly related to their major field of study. You can start working once your Employment Authorisation Document (EAD) has been approved.

Additionally, the STEM OPT extension is available for international students who have earned a degree in a STEM field and are currently on OPT. It allows them to extend their work authorisation for an additional 24 months beyond the initial 12 months of OPT, totalling 36 months.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT is a work authorisation programme that permits students on F-1 visas to work while pursuing their degrees. It is most often used for practicums, co-ops, and internships that are essential to a student's academic experience.

When and How Students Can Apply for CPT:

• CPT can be pursued only while the student is still enrolled in a degree program.
• The work must be directly related to the student's major and be part of the established curriculum (e.g., as part of a course requirement).
• The school handles the application process, and students must receive authorisation from the Designated School Official (DSO).

Restrictions and Requirements:

• To qualify for CPT, the student must have completed at least one academic year in their program (unless the program requires immediate CPT).
• CPT work must be part-time (20 hours or fewer per week) during the school term or full-time (more than 20 hours per week) during breaks.
• If a student works full-time on CPT for 12 months or more, they may lose eligibility for OPT later.

1. Gaining Practical Experience

OPT and STEM OPT are post-study work permits that enable international students to obtain practical experience in their field of study. This hands-on experience improves skill development and makes students more competitive in the global job market.

2. Networking Opportunities

Working in the USA gives students access to professional networks, mentors, and connections within their industries. Networking can lead to long-term career growth, job offers, and collaborations.

3. Pathway to Permanent Residency

Programs like the H-1B visa offer a pathway to permanent residency (green card). Many international students begin on OPT or STEM OPT, transition to H-1B status, and eventually apply for permanent residency if they secure long-term employment.

4. High Earning Potential

Indians need to know the average salary in the USA because it helps them decide about their careers and possible job prospects. Working in the USA provides access to some of the highest-paying job markets in the world, particularly in fields like technology, healthcare, engineering, and finance.

5. Exposure to Innovative Industries

The U.S. is home to cutting-edge industries such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, renewable energy, and financial technology. Working in these sectors provides exposure to innovation and high-demand skills.

Your academic status will change to an employment-based visa status when you convert your student visa (F-1) to a work permit in the United States. It provides several pathways for this conversion, primarily through programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT), Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and STEM OPT extension. Here’s a detailed guide:

Transition from a Student Visa to a Work Visa (H-1B)

The most common pathway after completing OPT or STEM OPT is transitioning to an H-1B visa, which allows you to work full-time in the U.S.

What is the H-1B Visa?

For specialised jobs requiring advanced knowledge or skills, the H-1B non-immigrant visa is available. It is typically used for jobs in fields like IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, and research.

Steps to Transition to an H-1B Visa:

• Find an Employer Willing to Sponsor You:
  • You must have a job offer from a U.S. employer who will sponsor your H-1B petition.
• Employer Files an H-1B Petition:
  • A Labour Condition Application (LCA) is filed by the employer with the Department of Labour (DOL), and USCIS receives Form I-129.
  • The application process opens annually in April, and approvals typically start in October.
• Participate in the H-1B Lottery (if required):
  • Due to high demand, H-1B visas are capped at 85,000 annually, with a lottery system in place for selection.
• Receive H-1B Approval:
  • If selected and approved, your status changes to H-1B, allowing you to work legally in the U.S.

Key Considerations for H-1B Transition:

• You can continue working under OPT or STEM OPT while waiting for H-1B approval if you meet the “cap-gap” rules.
• H-1B status is valid for up to 6 years (initial 3 years, with a 3-year extension).

Transition to a Permanent Work Visa (Green Card)

Some students may choose to transition to permanent residency (green card) through employment sponsorship.

Steps to Apply for an Employment-Based Green Card:

• Employer Sponsorship:
  • Your employer initiates the process by filing a PERM labour certification with the DOL, proving that no qualified U.S. worker is available for the role.
• Filing an Immigrant Petition:
  • The employer files Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) with USCIS.
• Adjust Status or Consular Processing:
  • If you are already in the U.S., you can file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) once your priority date is current.

• Plan Early: Begin researching work visa options and eligibility requirements while you are still studying.
• Leverage University Resources: Seek guidance from your university’s international office and Designated School Official (DSO) for OPT, CPT, and STEM OPT applications.
• Build a Strong Network: Attend career fairs, connect with alumni, and network with professionals in your field to increase your job prospects.
• Focus on High-Demand Skills: Invest in acquiring technical and professional skills that are in high demand, especially in STEM and technology fields.
• Choose Employers Wisely: Look for companies that sponsor H-1B visas and are registered with E-Verify to support your long-term career in the U.S.

By taking strategic steps and utilising available resources, Indian students can successfully transition from academic life to a fulfilling career in the U.S.