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What to Do When Your OPT Is Expiring

Explore every option available to you before your OPT work authorization runs out.

With your OPT expiration approaching, you need a clear plan. Whether you're on initial OPT or STEM OPT, there are several paths to continue working and living in the United States — but each has its own requirements and deadlines. Acting early gives you the most options.

Option 1: Apply for the STEM OPT Extension

If you hold a qualifying STEM degree and haven't yet used your STEM OPT extension, this is typically the best first option. The 24-month STEM OPT extension gives you additional time to work and additional chances at the H-1B lottery. Key requirements:

  • Your degree's CIP code must be on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List.
  • Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify.
  • You and your employer must complete Form I-983 (Training Plan).
  • You must apply up to 90 days before and no later than your OPT expiration date.

Option 2: H-1B Visa Through an Employer

The H-1B is the most common work visa for transitioning from F-1 status. Your employer must sponsor you by filing a petition with USCIS. Important considerations:

  • Cap-subject H-1B: Requires lottery selection. The registration period is typically in March for an October 1 start date. If selected, the cap-gap extends your OPT through September 30.
  • Cap-exempt H-1B: If you work for a qualifying institution — such as a university, nonprofit research organization, or government research entity — you may be exempt from the H-1B cap and can apply year-round without the lottery.

Option 3: Change of Status to Another Visa

If H-1B isn't an option, consider other visa categories:

  • O-1 visa: For individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in their field. Requires evidence of national or international recognition, major awards, publications, or significant contributions. No cap or lottery.
  • L-1 visa: If you've worked for a multinational company abroad, you may qualify for an intracompany transfer. Requires at least one year of employment with the company outside the U.S.
  • E-2 Treaty Investor visa: Available to nationals of treaty countries who are investing a substantial amount in a U.S. business. Not available from all countries.
  • J-1 visa: Some training and internship programs offer J-1 sponsorship, though this comes with potential two-year home-country physical presence requirements.

Option 4: Return to School

Enrolling in a new degree program allows you to maintain F-1 status. This can be strategic:

  • A higher-level degree (e.g., master's after bachelor's) resets your OPT eligibility at the new degree level.
  • You would be eligible for a new 12-month OPT and potentially another STEM OPT extension after completing the new degree.
  • Some programs offer CPT, allowing you to work while studying.

Option 5: Explore Alternative Pathways

Other options include:

  • Marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident: This provides a path to a green card but should never be pursued solely for immigration purposes.
  • EB-1A or National Interest Waiver: Self-petitioned green card categories for individuals with exceptional qualifications. These are high bars but don't require employer sponsorship.
  • Return home and apply for H-1B from abroad: You can leave the U.S. and have a U.S. employer file an H-1B petition on your behalf while you're overseas. If approved, you'd enter the U.S. on H-1B status through consular processing.

The 60-Day Grace Period

After your OPT or STEM OPT expires, you have a 60-day grace period during which you remain in valid F-1 status but cannot work. Use this time to prepare for departure, change status, or finalize enrollment in a new program. Do not overstay beyond the grace period — this triggers unlawful presence consequences.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I start planning for OPT expiration?

Start at least 6 months before expiration. If you're pursuing H-1B, your employer needs to register by March for an October 1 start. If you're applying for STEM OPT, you can file up to 90 days early. Early planning gives you the most options.

Can I extend OPT without a STEM degree?

No. The only extension available for post-completion OPT is the STEM OPT extension, which requires a qualifying STEM degree. Without a STEM degree, your OPT is limited to 12 months. You would need to pursue other visa options or return to school.

What is the 60-day grace period after OPT expires?

After your OPT expires, you have 60 days of F-1 grace period. During this time, you are in valid status but cannot work. You can use this period to prepare for departure, apply for a change of status, or transfer to a new school.

Can I apply for a green card while on OPT?

Yes, an employer can begin the green card process (PERM labor certification) while you're on OPT. However, the green card process typically takes years, so OPT alone usually isn't long enough to reach approval. You'll likely need H-1B or another status in the interim.

Related Guides

OPT to H-1B Cap-Gap: What You Need to KnowSTEM OPT Extension ExplainedF-1 to H-1B: The Complete TimelineH-1B Cap-Exempt Employers