F-1 Visa FAQs
Can I freelance on a F1-visa?
Yes with the proper work authorization (OPT, O-1). You can’t freelance under STEM Extension.
Can I remain in the US if my F-1 visa status has expired?
The F-1 visa is a document required for entry into the United States. Once you are in the United States your status is dependent on your maintaining the F-1 status with a valid SEVIS Record. The SEVIS Record is reflected in your printed Form I-20.
Therefore you may remain in the United States with an expired F-1 visa as long as you continue to maintain your F-1 student status. We will update your SEVIS Record when you complete your program of study to reflect your program end date and your Post-Completion requested dates which will reflect your continued F-1 status.
You may continue to remain in the USA after your F-1 student visa expires. You will need to apply for a visa renewal the next time you travel after your visa expires.
— Mindy Ward, Senior ISSO Adviser (DSO)
How to communicate about visa status in an interview?
1. General Approach
Don't bring up visa status unless asked, especially if you just started OPT. If the interviewer raises the topic, keep the response straightforward and professional—avoid making it a major focus.
2. Before the Interview
Verify the company's legal and employment eligibility status: Look up their official business name on the SEC website. Check their E-Verify enrollment through the .
3. If the Employer is E-Verified
Casually mention that you require STEM OPT extension paperwork to be signed by the company as part of your status as an international hire. If your STEM Extension is expiring, inform them of the timeline and any plans for transitioning to another visa (e.g., O-1, H-1B, or another work authorization). Script:
I’m currently on an F-1 visa with STEM OPT, which allows me to work with your company which is E-Verified. However, I want to flag that my STEM extension runs until July, but I’m in the final stages of securing my O-1 visa which will grant a long-term work authorization. So to hire me right now, there would not be any issues; I just need a paperwork (i-983) signed for my school to review.
4. If the Employer is Not E-Verified
If applicable, mention that you are in the process of petitioning for an O-1 visa. Do you offer visa sponsorship? Would it be possible to work as an independent contractor until my visa is approved?
Work Authorization
Visa
Past events
H-1B info session with immigration attorney Roz Hall, Feb 3, 2023 Immigration attorney Roz Hall will explore every step of the H-1B visa, from eligibility to filing to changes in employment and more. For those who missed the session, here is the recording:
STEM Extension
How to add 2nd employer for STEM Extension
Eligibility: Check if E-Verified, etc. Upload your new Form I-983 to the STEM Participation Report E-form > Change of Employer in your . It should not require a final evaluation so you will skip that part of the e-form. After you complete and submit the STEM Participation Report e-form it will go into the DSO queue and they will review it in 3-5 business days and advise you on the next steps. Notify DSO: Report new employment to your DSO: Hello [NAME], I have started a new position with [New Employer's Name], while continuing my employment with [First Employer's Name]. Work Hours: Maintain a minimum of 20 hours per week across both jobs.
Employment
Situation you may have to navigate through
You have been approached by a company for a job opportunity, but they seem to have limited knowledge about the international hiring process. The decision-maker is likely to be someone from HR or Legal who may have a better understanding of the process. Despite receiving several positive signals that you are an exceptional candidate, it is crucial to keep your expectations realistic. Typically, due to visa-related challenges, the company may offer you a contract-based work arrangement instead of a permanent position. Thoughts
It’s important to differentiate between staying in the US and working for US-based companies (eg. for better opportunities, pay, culture, type of work) Consider a Digital Nomad Visa in 53 countries:
