Can You Work on OPT After an F-1 Visa? Here’s What You Need to Know

For many international students studying in the United States, the F-1 visa is the gateway to world-class education — and often, to their first professional opportunity in America. One of the most valuable benefits of F-1 status is the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows students to gain real-world experience in their field of study.

But how exactly does OPT work after you complete your studies? Let’s break it down.

What Is OPT (Optional Practical Training)?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary employment authorization available to F-1 students who want to work in the U.S. in a position directly related to their major.

OPT comes in two forms:

• Pre-Completion OPT: Work authorization while you are still pursuing your degree (part-time during semesters, full-time during breaks).

• Post-Completion OPT: Authorization to work after graduation, which is the most common path for F-1 students.

  
  

How Long Can You Work on OPT?

The standard OPT period lasts up to 12 months per educational level (for example, 12 months after a bachelor’s degree, and another 12 months after a master’s degree).

Students in STEM fields — Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics — may be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, bringing their total work authorization to 36 months.

Eligibility Requirements for OPT

To qualify for OPT, you must:

1. Maintain valid F-1 student status.

2. Have completed at least one full academic year of study in the U.S.

3. Apply for OPT within the correct time frame — up to 90 days before graduation and no later than 60 days after.

4. Obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before starting any employment.

When Can You Start Working?

You can begin employment only after:

• You have received your EAD card, and

• The start date printed on the card has arrived.

Working before your EAD start date counts as unauthorized employment, which can lead to serious immigration consequences.

Key OPT Rules to Remember

• All jobs must be directly related to your field of study.

• You can work for multiple employers, as long as each job meets the OPT criteria.

• During post-completion OPT, you may be unemployed for up to 90 days. Beyond that, you risk losing your F-1 status.

  
  

The Bottom Line

OPT offers F-1 students an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience, build professional networks, and launch their careers in the United States. However, it’s crucial to follow all application rules and immigration timelines carefully.

If you’ve recently graduated or are planning your transition to the workforce, speaking with an immigration attorney can help ensure that your OPT application and employment comply fully with U.S. immigration law — protecting both your career and your status.