Update 1- Feb 8, 2021
Can students on OPT CPT work remotely during the COVID times. ICE says yes. See from page 12 on of this FAQ released by the govt.
https://www.ice.gov/doclib/coronavirus/covid19faq.pdf
Update 2 - Feb 8, 2021
How to account for the excepted days off and employer close downs.
https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/2016/12/opt-students-what-do-if-your-employer-closes-during-holidays
----------------
F-1 Visa Holder Travel Abroad (OPT/H-1B)
Post completion OPT (First Year)
OPT applied and pending
You can travel, but NOT recommended
What if There is an RFE?
What if the OPT is denied?
You will not be able to enter the USA on F-1 if your OPT is denied.
OPT approved
You CAN travel if:
You have a valid passport and F-1 visa
Proof of employment/training
I-20 endorsed for travel
Note that the time outside during OPT is counted towards your maximum permitted days of unemployment
STEM OPT
STEM OPT applied and first year OPT is still valid
You can travel if:
You have a valid passport and F-1 visa
Proof of STEM employment/training
Proof that you worked during the first year OPT
I-20 endorsed for travel
STEM OPT applied and first year OPT expired
Do NOT travel until STEM OPT is approved
STEM OPT approved
You can travel if:
You have a valid passport and F-1 visa
Proof of STEM employment/training
Proof that you worked during the first year OPT
I-20 endorsed for travel
Note that the time outside during OPT is counted towards your maximum permitted days of unemployment
H-1B application process
Travel before lottery is filed
You can travel. Make sure you meet the requirements of OPT or STEM OPT travel
Travel after lottery is filed or selected, but before H-1B petition is filed
You can travel. Make sure you meet the requirements of OPT or STEM OPT travel. Be back in the USA when the H-1B petition is filed.
Travel while H-1B petition is pending
NOT recommended. It creates problems.
What problems?
1. You may not be able to return until H-1B is approved and you get an H-1B visa.
2. If you are able to return, your cap gap may have terminated.
3. you will have to get an H-1B visa OR apply again for change of status, which exposes you to RFE's just like the original filing.
Travel after H-1B petition is approved
If you travel before your H-1B start date
You may have to wait outside the USA. Get an H-1B visa stamp. Enter USA no earlier than 10 days before your H-1B start date.
If you travel after your H-1B start date
You will need to obtain an H-1B visa stamp at the consulate
