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Hello, everyone!  I am an international student taking education in the United States, and I will graduate soon.  I’m not sure how long I can remain in the US despite graduation.  I’ve heard about time limits and work permits, but I don’t completely understand the restrictions.  Could you please clarify how long I can remain in the US after finishing my studies? 

I’ve highlighted the stay-back options you have when you finish your graduation in the US:

  1. OPT: After completing studies, a student can utilize the post-degree OPT employment limit to stay in the United States.  If one has utilized, say, 4 months of OPT work while school, commonly recognized as part-time job, one will have 10 months of full-time job during graduation. However, a job should be gained within 90 days of graduating.  STEM students can increase their OPT work limit by up to 24 months.  Consulting with the university’s foreign student department will support you understand the application process and find out your eligibility.
  2. Non-immigrant H-1B Visa (Speciality Occupation): This can be used if a student already has a job that will sponsor him and the employment is linked to the most field of study in his United States Bachelor’s degree.  Before applying for this visa, you must require an attestation of your labour conditions.  It is serve for three years and can be increased up to six years.
  3. Green Card: Though available in restricted quantities, a working professional may be eligible to apply for a Green Card based on his job status and other criteria.

You can request your company to sponsor your stay in the USA. It is known as employer sponsorship. The organization shall fill EB-2 or EB-3 depends on your employment status.