H1b pending, OPT expired.

[F N]

Hello, 

 

I have been selected for the lottery 2015, and waiting for the result, my OPT expires in May, and I have not used my OPT STEM extension yet. Now if I receive a denied notice for my h1b after my OPT expires, can I apply for OPT extension in the 60 days grace period? 

 

If I apply for OPT extension now that my H1b is already pending processing, will it cause any issue? 

 

USCIS posted today that they will begin Premium processing on 28th April, that means it will take a a maximum of 15 days to get the result and my OPT expires on 12th. Im very confused, should I apply for OPT extension or just wait for the h1b results? 

 

NOTE: my employer does not have e verify number so I will need to find a new employer and then only I can apply for OPT extension. 

[rahul412]

You will be safe if your H1 is approved. But what will you do if it got rejected??

[hightech]

My best suggestion is for safer side apply for OPT STEM Extension before initial OPT expires and it won't cause even if the H1B in pending process.

 

 

If you have any questions can reach me at itfor3030 gmail