Employment and Visa Options for International Students and Scholars

Tuesday, April 9th from 4:00 – 6:00 PM

Presenter: Immigration Attorney Amanda Lynch
Location: Petteruti Lounge - Stephen Robert Campus Center, 75 Waterman Street

The focus of this informational session, geared toward students and scholars, will be on nonimmigrant employment with special emphasis on visa options after optional practical training (F-1) or academic training (J-1)*. Ms. Lynch will discuss various types of working visas and applicable filing requirements, and update participants on current H-1B provisions and the petition process for H-1B visas. Other work visas and employment-based permanent residency (green card) will be introduced as well.

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Travel Signature Reminder: Drop off your I-20 or DS-2019 at OISSS

If you will be traveling outside the U.S. this spring or over summer break, please take a moment to check that you have a current (less than a year old at time of re-entry to the U.S.) travel signature on page 2 of your I-20 for F-1 students, or in the lower right hand corner of your DS-2019 for J-1 students/scholars. Travel signatures are valid for 1 year to the date signed (6 months on post-completion F-1 OPT) and can be used multiple times before they expire.

If you need a new travel signature, please drop off your I-20 or DS-2019 to the OISSS to be signed. Don’t wait until the last minute! Please keep in mind that due to the volume of requests, the travel signature process can take 7-10 business days.

At this time we also remind you to take a moment to review the travel information on the OISSS website here.

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International Students - Planning to work in the U.S. this summer or after graduation?

Now is the time to apply for Optional Practical Training [OPT]!

Processing times at the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) are approximately 3-4 months from the date they receive your application to adjudicate your OPT application and issue your Employment Authorization Card (EAD).

If you have not yet applied for OPT but anticipate to graduate in May, please apply as soon as possible! You do not need to have secured employment in order to be eligible to apply. Please come to OISSS (3rd Floor of JWW) during walk-in advising hours M-Th 1:30-3:30 pm with the required documents to get started on your application.

For further information, and also for information on Curricular Practical Training (CPT) see Employment Options for F-1 Students here.