How to Get a Work Permit After Studying in United States

For many international students, obtaining a post-study work visa is a crucial step toward starting their career in the United States. The post-study work visa allows graduates to gain practical work experience and earn a living in the U.S. after completing their degree. This opportunity is essential for building a global career, expanding professional networks, and enhancing future job prospects. In this article, we’ll explore the eligibility requirements, application process, work opportunities, and more, to help you understand how to obtain a work permit after studying in the United States.

Eligibility Requirements

Before applying for a post-study work visa in the United States, it’s important to understand the basic eligibility requirements. To qualify for a post-study work visa, students must meet the following conditions:

• Have completed a degree from a U.S. institution that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
• Be enrolled in a full-time study program at a recognized institution.
• Hold a valid student visa (F-1 visa) during their studies.
• Meet the necessary requirements for specific work permits, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) or the STEM OPT extension for graduates in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics fields.

In addition to the above criteria, there may be other work limitations based on the visa type. For example, students on OPT can work for up to 12 months in the U.S. in a job related to their field of study. Those with a STEM degree may qualify for an additional 24-month extension. For further details, visit the official USCIS page on OPT.

Application Process

Applying for a post-study work visa in the United States involves several important steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Choose Your Visa Type - Depending on your degree and field of study, you can apply for an OPT visa or the STEM OPT extension.
2. Submit Your Application - You will need to file an application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), including the Form I-765 for OPT or the appropriate forms for STEM OPT.
3. Prepare Required Documents - Documents typically include your passport, visa, academic transcripts, and proof of enrollment. You may also need to provide a job offer letter if applying for specific types of work permits.
4. Pay Fees - Application fees must be paid as part of the process. For example, the I-765 filing fee is currently $410. If you need help managing the costs of visa applications and other expenses, check out the Panda Remit money transfer guide to learn how to pay fees easily from abroad.
5. Wait for Approval - After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for USCIS to process it. This can take several weeks or months, depending on the type of visa and your specific situation.

Post-Study Work Opportunities

Once your work visa is approved, you will be able to work in the United States in a job related to your degree. There are numerous opportunities available for graduates in various fields. Common industries hiring international graduates include:

• Technology and IT
• Healthcare
• Finance and accounting
• Engineering
• Marketing and business development

Many graduates also choose to work in research and development positions, especially in the STEM fields. The salary for such positions can vary widely depending on the location and industry. For example, engineers in Silicon Valley typically earn higher wages than those in other areas. As a graduate working in the U.S., you may also need to manage salary transfers. For tips on the best exchange rates when transferring money overseas, visit Panda Remit’s exchange rate benefits page.

Family and Travel Provisions

If you are married or have dependent children, you may be able to bring them to the United States during your post-study work period. The following provisions generally apply to dependents:

• Spouses may be eligible for an accompanying visa, such as the F-2 visa.
• Children under 21 may also qualify for an F-2 visa.

Regarding travel, while on a post-study work visa, you are permitted to travel outside the U.S. and return, but re-entry may require additional documentation, such as a valid visa stamp. It’s recommended to consult the official USCIS page for the most accurate and updated travel rules for visa holders.

Common Challenges and Solutions

While obtaining a post-study work visa is an exciting opportunity, the process can come with challenges, including:

• Visa delays or rejections
• Difficulty in finding a job
• Meeting visa renewal deadlines

If you experience delays or rejections, it’s important to address any issues promptly. One way to avoid common mistakes is to ensure all your documents are complete and submitted on time. Additionally, if you face financial barriers when transferring money for visa renewals or other fees, Panda Remit offers safe and affordable international payments. Visit the official Panda Remit site for more information.

Transition to Long-Term Work Visa or PR

If you’re looking to stay in the U.S. after your post-study work visa expires, you may be eligible to apply for a long-term work visa or permanent residency (PR). The most common transition options include:

• H-1B visa for specialized workers
• Employer-sponsored green cards
• Other work-based immigration programs

To apply for a long-term work visa, you will typically need a job offer from a U.S. employer and will need to demonstrate that you meet the necessary qualifications. You can also consider financial planning for visa renewal fees, and Panda Remit can assist with low-fee, fast transfers. For additional details, check out the Panda Remit Help Center.

Funding & Financial Tips

Managing finances during your post-study work period is essential. As a graduate working in the United States, you’ll need to budget for various expenses, including rent, transportation, and visa renewal fees. It’s important to find cost-effective ways to transfer money internationally, and Panda Remit offers one of the lowest-fee and fastest ways to send money abroad. You can learn more about safe international payments in the Panda Remit Help Center.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining a United States post-study work visa is an exciting opportunity for international students to launch their careers. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and work opportunities, you can successfully navigate this important step. Additionally, financial planning is crucial, and Panda Remit can help you manage your tuition and living expenses. Start planning your future today and start transferring today.