Page 17 - Passport Sized Visa Reference Guide
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F-1 Student Visa
• Must apply to U.S. college and receive I-20
• Then apply for F-1 visa at U.S. Consulate
• May apply for limited part time work authorization while in school (CPT)
• Can receive 1 year work permit after graduation for full time work (OPT)
Comment: F-1 students who were Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) majors can get a 17 month extension of their OPT work permit (for 29 months total); employer must use the E-verify online system for verification of I-9 employment
Comment: A STEM major can skip the H-1B filing for a year, and file the following year. Employers can then utilize the PERM Labor Certification sponsorship for Permanent Residency.
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