Nino89 Posted October 28, 2015 Report Share Posted October 28, 2015 Hello, I am currently on my 12 month OPT which expires on Feb 1st, 2016 and I am eligible to apply for STEM OPT extension. I want to send out my application now so that I'd have enough time to get a reply from USCIS regarding my application. However, I have plans to travel outside the country for personal reasons in the month of December (which can't be avoided). When I spoke to the international Student advisor at my university, I was told that I am not supposed to travel outside the country while my application is under processing. So I was advised to apply after my return. Now I'm concerned that at the time of re-entry into the states, I might face problems at the port of entry - immigration center, as I'll have only about one month on my current OPT before it expires and I am yet to send out my application for OPT extension. I will however, be able to provide an employment offer letter and other necessary documentation. My question is, how big a risk is this? And what are my options? Also, will the timing or any other aspect of the new rules that are being established under OPT STEM, effect my application or my re-entry in any way? Thank you. Link to comment
shekar11# Posted October 28, 2015 Report Share Posted October 28, 2015 You should be good. Better go for your trip, come back and then apply. As long as you have pay stubs, job continuation letter you should be good at port of entry. Also your extension application can reach USCIS just before your 12 month OPT expires. So you will almost have a month for applying extension after you return. An you can work 180 days based on your extension receipt. You don't need to have a OPT extension card in hand for continuing your employment. Link to comment
Nino89 Posted October 29, 2015 Author Report Share Posted October 29, 2015 Ok that's good to know! However, I'd like to mention that I have plans to travel outside the country while I'm between jobs. My future job starts after I come back. So I will not be able to show pay stubs for the month I'm away. Would it still be ok? Link to comment
shekar11# Posted November 2, 2015 Report Share Posted November 2, 2015 Job offer letter should be good. Link to comment
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