|
|
| |
OBJECTIVE: Practical experience for foreign students
Foreign students attending undergraduate or graduate programs at U.S. universities may be given authorization to work in the U.S. as part of their student visa. This will allow the student to work for a U.S. employer in order to gain practical knowledge in the field of study. The amount of time the student is authorized to work for is governed by the optional practical training period. This optional practical training (OPT) period is generally given for 12 months, but may be given for up to 29 months for students with degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math.
Employers hiring these OPT students should be aware of some of the nuances of the OPT program involving I-9 documentation, E-Verify, unemployment, reporting requirements, and travel. We provide knowledgeable counsel in this area and are available to assist you along the way.
Students working pursuant to their OPT are often eligible for H-1B visas at the completion of the training program. Employers wishing to retain an OPT employee may need to sponsor the student for an H-1B visa. Our office files many F-1 to H-1B applications each year and can help ensure that the process is seamless and straightforward.
|
|