Working for your own startup on STEM OPT is usually not permitted, because it requires a bona fide employer-employee relationship, an E-Verify employer, and a formal I-983 training plan. [...]
Moving from F-1 OPT to an O-1 lets qualifying graduates keep working beyond OPT without the H-1B cap, but it needs extraordinary ability evidence, a petitioner, and careful timing before OPT ends. [...]
Yes, through a SEVIS transfer, if both schools are approved and you maintain status. A valid visa generally does not need renewal to transfer, though travel with an expired visa does. [...]
Losing F-1 status puts you out of status. The main options are reinstatement, if eligible, or leaving and reentering on a new SEVIS record. Delay adds unlawful presence. [...]
Yes, but not directly. F-1 students transition to a green card through employment (often via H-1B), marriage or family, or a self-petition. Mind the F-1 intent rules. [...]
F-1 students generally cannot work off campus without authorization. Approved options include CPT, OPT, and, in limited cases, an economic hardship work permit. [...]
No, you cannot enroll in a course of study on a tourist visa; that needs F-1 or M-1 status. Only short recreational classes are allowed. Change status before studying. [...]
Yes, you can change from F-1 to H-1B when an employer files a petition, usually through the cap and lottery. Cap-gap bridges the timing until the October 1 start. [...]
You can change from B-2 to F-1 by filing Form I-539 with a school I-20, but the timing is strict. Maintain status, bridge any gap, and do not study before approval. [...]
OPT unemployment rules explained: the 90-day and 150-day limits, how days are counted, grace periods, status violations, and your options before time runs out. [...]
