Navigating the H-1B Change of Status process with Wipro for F-1 OPT students.
For F-1 OPT students seeking to transition to H-1B status without leaving the U.S., a Change of Status (COS) is the preferred route. This page details the process and considerations for pursuing an H-1B COS with Wipro in FY2026.
| Feature | Data Point | Trend vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Wipro H-1B Filings (Est.) | ~25,000+ | [↑ 4%] |
| F-1 OPT COS $100K Fee | EXEMPT | [Clarified] |
| Overall FY2027 Lottery Odds | 35.3% | [↔ 0%] |
| New Form I-129 Mandatory | April 2026 | [New] |
Our analysis of DOL data confirms that F-1 OPT to H-1B Change of Status applications are exempt from the $100K fee, a critical piece of information often misunderstood. This exemption significantly reduces the financial burden for both the employee and the sponsoring company.
Ensure your F-1 OPT status is valid and your employer (Wipro) files the H-1B petition and Change of Status request concurrently. This avoids the need for consular processing and the associated $100K fee.
For F-1 OPT students seeking H-1B sponsorship with Wipro via Change of Status (COS), the process is generally preferred over consular processing. A key advantage is that COS applications are exempt from the $100K fee, making it more accessible. Wipro, as a large IT employer, actively sponsors H-1B visas, and COS is a common pathway for their OPT employees. The overall FY2027 H-1B lottery odds were 35.3%, a factor for all applicants, including those pursuing COS.
Candidates must ensure their OPT status is current and that Wipro files the H-1B petition and COS request concurrently. The mandatory April 2026 implementation of the new Form I-129 is also relevant. Expanded social media vetting on March 30, 2026, necessitates maintaining a professional online presence.
Based on DOL data and regulations for 2026:
Q: Is the $100K fee applicable to F-1 OPT to H-1B Change of Status with Wipro?
A: No, F-1 OPT to H-1B Change of Status applications filed with USCIS are exempt from the $100K fee. This applies to Wipro sponsorships.
Q: What is the H-1B lottery odds for F-1 OPT Change of Status applicants?
A: The odds are the same as for other H-1B applicants. The overall FY2027 lottery selection odds were 35.3%.
Q: Can I stay in the U.S. while my H-1B COS is pending with Wipro?
A: Yes, if your F-1 OPT is valid and Wipro files the H-1B petition and COS concurrently, you can generally remain in the U.S. while it's processed.
Q: What happens if my H-1B COS is denied?
A: If denied, your F-1 status may be affected. You might need to depart the U.S. or explore other visa options. Consult with Wipro's legal counsel.
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Search H-1B Sponsors on Wisa →No, F-1 OPT to H-1B Change of Status applications filed with USCIS are exempt from the $100K fee. This applies to Wipro sponsorships.
The odds are the same as for other H-1B applicants. The overall FY2027 lottery selection odds were 35.3%.
Yes, if your F-1 OPT is valid and Wipro files the H-1B petition and COS concurrently, you can generally remain in the U.S. while it's processed.
If denied, your F-1 status may be affected. You might need to depart the U.S. or explore other visa options. Consult with Wipro's legal counsel.