Students graduating with Masters degree have lots of confusion on when to graduate and how the 17 months OPT rules will impact if H1B Visa is not selected in the lottery. I spend some time today looking at various immigration attorneys websites and USCIS portal.
I found some useful link and OPT FAQ’s. Hopefully that will answer some of students questions about 17 months OPT extension. If the employer is not enrolled in e-verify program, then student cannot file 17 months extension.
E-Verify Program
Not all companies are willing to enroll in the e-verify program. Its mandatory in some 7 states where companies have to be enrolled in e-verify program. Also, I did read, the possibility of e-verify program can be removed in March 2009. Since the immigration rules are very complex and its very important if in doubt, consult a immigration lawyer.
OPT FAQ Links
- 17 Month Rule to Reduce H1B Shortage – Article says students can apply more than once if H1B Visa is not selected in lottery in first time.
- OPT Rules – FQS’s- You can find some very useful information about OPT Rules.
- USCIS OPT FAQ – 1
- USCIS OPT Faq – 2
- List of Programs in STEM eligible for 17 months Extension
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