Imagine graduating from a top university in the United States and having the opportunity to kick-start your career in one of the most powerful economies in the world. That dream can become a reality if your application for a post-graduation work visa in the USA is successful. A post-graduation work visa is a permit that allows international students to stay and work in the US after completing their studies. It is a crucial pathway for many international students who aspire to gain work experience, expand their professional network, and explore their career options in the land of opportunity.
In this article, we’ll explore how to obtain a post-graduation work visa in the US and the benefits it offers to international students seeking to pursue their dreams.
Eligibility Criteria for a USA Post-Graduation Work Visa
To be eligible for a post-graduation work visa in the USA, international students must meet certain criteria, listed below:
- You must have completed a full-time degree program at a U.S. college or university that is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.
- You must have maintained valid F-1 student status throughout your studies in the US.
- You must apply for the post-graduation work visa within 60 days of completing your degree program.
- The job you intend to work in must be related to your field of study.
- The duration of the work visa will depend on your level of education and the type of degree you earned. Generally, the duration of the visa will be between 12 and 36 months
To avoid problems, it’s better to consult with an immigration lawyer or the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for more detailed information on the eligibility criteria and the application process.
Steps on Applying for a U.S. Post-Graduation Work Visa
The US post-graduate work visa you aim for is officially called the Optional Practical Training (OPT). This visa can generally be up to 12-17 months for Pre-Completion OPT or can turn full-time for Post-Completion OPT. To apply for OPT, you must follow a series of steps:
Step 1. Meet Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for OPT, you must ensure you are eligible for the program. You must have completed a degree program at a U.S. college or university, be in good academic standing, and have not exceeded 90 days of unemployment during your OPT period.
Step 2. Apply for OPT
To apply for OPT, you must first obtain a Form I-20 from your school’s international student office. This form will confirm that you are eligible for OPT and help you apply for the program. Once you have the Form I-20, you can apply for OPT through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
Step 3. Pay the Fee
There is a fee associated with applying for OPT, which is currently $520. You must pay this fee when applying for an American post-graduation work visa.
Step 4. Wait for Approval
After submitting your application, you must wait for approval from USCIS. Processing time varies depending on the time of year and the number of applications received, but it typically takes around three months to receive a decision.
Step 5. Begin Working
Once you receive approval for OPT, you can begin working in the United States. You are allowed to work for up to 12 months, and you can apply for a 24-month extension if you meet certain requirements.
It is important to note that there are some restrictions associated with OPT. For example, you must have a job offer related to your field of study, and you must work for a U.S.-based employer. Additionally, you must report any changes in your employment status or address to your school’s international student office.
Required Documents for a U.S. Post-Graduation Work Visa
Here are some of the common documents and credentials that international students may need to provide when applying for a post-graduation work visa in the USA:
| POST-GRAD WORK VISA REQUIREMENTS |
| A valid passport not expiring for at least six months after the intended stay in the U.S. |
| Form I-20 issued by the U.S. educational institution confirming the student’s attendance and eligibility for the F-1 student status |
| Official transcripts and diploma showing a full-time degree program completion from an accredited U.S. school |
| Proof of financial resources to support yourself during your U.S. stay (ex. bank statements, scholarship letters, or other financial documents) |
| A job offer from a U.S. employer related to your field of study |
| Completed visa application forms, including Form I-765 for work authorization and other forms as required by the specific visa program |
FAQs: Post-Graduation Work Visa Applications for the USA
What is the Process for Extending a Post-Graduation Work Visa to the USA?
To extend your Post-Graduation work visa in the USA, you must obtain a new Form I-20 from your school’s international student office, submit Form I-765 along with the required fee, wait for approval from USCIS, and report any changes in your employment status or address to your school’s international student office. If approved, you can work for an additional 24 months under the OPT extension. It is essential to apply for the OPT extension before your current OPT period expires, and you may only apply for an OPT extension once per degree level.
How Can You Find a Job in the U.S. as an International Student?
To find a job in the United States as an international student, it is important to start early and use networking opportunities, such as connecting with alumni, attending events, and using social media. Research companies in your field of interest and identify those that sponsor visas for international employees. Additionally, use job search engines and stay informed about the latest trends in your industry. Developing in-demand skills is also crucial to making yourself more attractive to employers. By using these strategies, you can increase your chances of finding a job and kick-starting your career in the United States.
Overall, by obtaining a US work permit, you can broaden your horizons, expand your network, and enhance your resume, opening doors to exciting career opportunities. While the American post-graduation work visa application process can be daunting, following the steps outlined in this article can simplify the process and increase your chances of success. With determination and perseverance, you can make your dreams of working in the US a reality and create a bright future for yourself.
Hopefully, this article on how to get a post-graduation work visa in the USA was informative and helpful. Feel free to visit our Study in the USA and Available Courses sections for more information about the different universities and scholarship opportunities in the USA!
