How to Check “Unemployment Period” During OPT

OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a period of temporary employment that is directly related to an F1 student’s major area of study. After graduation, F1 visa students can have at least one year of OPT during which they have work authorization and can work for any employer, as long as the job is related to their field of study. During this time, individuals are generally unrestricted and can stay in the U.S.

However, federal law clearly defines the allowed period of unemployment during OPT. If a student exceeds this unemployment period, they must leave the U.S. This article will focus on how to check the unemployment period during OPT and strategies for managing OPT unemployment.

How Long is the Unemployment Period for OPT/STEM OPT?

Federal law sets clear limits on the allowed unemployment period for OPT or OPT Extension (STEM):

– OPT: Students are allowed up to 90 cumulative days of unemployment during the entire OPT period.

– OPT Extension: If a 24-month extension is granted, this unemployment period increases to 150 days (including the cumulative unemployment days during the post-graduation OPT period).

How to Check the OPT Unemployment Period?

There are two ways to calculate the unemployment period:

1. Manual Calculation

   – Start from the OPT start date noted on your EAD card and manually count the days you were not employed during the OPT period.

   – Be aware that periods of job transitions or layoffs, where you do not have a new employer, must be included in the unemployment count.

2. Accurate Unemployment Period Check

Students can check their unemployment period through SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System).

   – Log into SEVIS.

   – Access the “Student Information” page.

   – Select the “Employment Information” link.

   – On this page, you can see the “Unemployment Counter” (which shows the allowed, accumulated, and remaining unemployment days during the active OPT period).

Impacts of OPT Expiry:

1. Record in SEVIS:

   – Your work status during the OPT period is recorded in your SEVIS record. If your unemployment period exceeds the allowed days, this information can be seen by USCIS during future status change applications, such as applying for STEM OPT or H-1B visas.

2. Illegal Stay:

   – Exceeding the allowed unemployment period is considered illegal stay in the U.S., your F1 visa status will be invalidated, and accumulating illegal stay days can affect future re-entry into the U.S.

Strategies for Managing OPT Unemployment Period:

1. Leverage Job Search Platforms:

   – Utilize job search platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and Handshake, which have numerous updated job postings.

2. Consider Opportunities in Small Businesses:

   – Small businesses might be more willing to hire new employees without prior experience.

3. Unpaid Internships, Volunteer Work, or Part-Time Jobs:

   – Engage in activities that can enhance your resume, expand your professional network, and help you determine if the role is a good fit for you.

4. Entrepreneurship:

   – If you have a business idea, consider starting your own company and employing yourself. Starting a business does not necessarily require a physical office or substantial initial capital.

5. Pursue Further Education:

   – If you decide to further your studies, you can apply for a new degree program. After completing the new degree, you can apply for a new OPT period.

Summary

We hope students successfully navigate through the OPT phase. If your OPT unemployment period is about to expire and you have not yet found a job, consider applying to a Day 1 CPT school and converting back to an F1 student visa to continue your job search. For more information, feel free to contact CISI for a free consultation.