Is there a grace period for an OPT?
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Is there a grace period for an OPT?
I am currently on OPT (for the last 9 months) and doing an unpaid internship since then with a city. I’m looking for a H1 sponsor. My field of study was Urban Planning. My OPT expires in 4 months and I wanted to know for how long after my OPT expires, can I stay back. Also, for my field can I extend my OPT to a year and a half more (STEM extension)?
Asked on May 29, 2012 under Immigration Law, California
Answers:
SB, Member, California / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
You have 60 days after expiration of your OPT that you can lawfully remain in the US. Depending on when that would run out and whether it would take you into the H-1B validity period (assuming you find a H-1B employer and the petition on your behalf is approved) you may either be able to remain in the US until the H-1B becomes active or have to leave to consular process for your H-1B visa.
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