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June 30, 2023, Rajiv in QnA on behalf of students and young professionals
Nonimmigrant Visas
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Legal options and factors for a future stay in the USA; not selected in H-1B lottery, Master's Degree, and passport renewal
Question details
Currently, I am holding a STEM OPT from May 2022 until May 2024 (2 years).
My employer had applied for H1B this year and last year but had no luck.
Question and suggestion, please:
1) What are my legal options?
1.1 Apply for H1b next year in March and wait for the result, In case H1b is picked, how do I process it as my STEM opt expires in May 2024?
2) Enroll in university for the Master's degree?
2.1 I have a few classes remaining for my master's as I have finished my bachelor's degree in the USA and I take Day One CPT? Once a master's degree is complete, reapply for OPT and STEM OPT.
2.2 Should I continue to apply for H1B in the meantime?
3) If I apply for Master and Day One CPT, do I need to enroll for May–August 2024 (the summer class) or can I enroll for Fall 2024?
Note: STEM OPT Expires: May 15, 2024, or please suggest any other better option to stay in the USA.
Lastly, my passport expires in May 2024 as well. Is there any problem there?
- I'm thinking of starting the process for the renewal online. Should I do it now or wait for some time?
FAQ Transcript
OPT can be applied at the next higher educational level. For instance, if your first OPT was based on a master's degree, you would need to pursue a higher level of education, such as a PhD, to apply for another OPT.
Regarding your passport expiration, it shouldn't be a significant issue. You have the option of expedited passport processing, which can help you get your passport renewed quickly. Overall, it should not cause major complications, and you should be fine.
For more information on your question please visit the blog section:
Transfer an approved H-1B selected in the lottery to a new employer before October 1st
Question details
I am in the F1 OPT period and I worked with Amazon from August 2022 to May 2023. My H1B got picked in the lottery this year, and got it approved in June 2023. Currently, I’m in my 90-day period of unemployment, and would possibly get a new job with another employer before it ends.
I don’t want to lose my H1B this year. Is there any way that I can transfer my approved H1B to the new employer?
FAQ Transcript
You can transfer an approved H-1B selected in the lottery to a new employer before October 1st.
F Visa Services and Fees
Fee schedule for F-1 visa classification (payable by personal or corporate checks)
Note: For governmental Requests For Evidence (RFEs), we charge extra based upon the complexity of the issue(s).