Can international student stay in us after graduation? What You Need To Know

Introduction

Can international student stay in us after graduation? Whether you’re an international student who has just completed your degree in the United States or a foreign national who is still studying here, if you’re planning to stay in the U.S. after graduation, you need to know that there are strict regulations and rules to follow.

Failure to do so could lead to undesirable consequences including deportation from the country or denial of citizenship.

Learn more about how you can maintain your legal status as an international student and the rules and requirements you have to meet with the help of this comprehensive guide on staying in America after graduation as an international student.

What does it mean for an International Student to Stay in US After Graduation

An H-1B visa is a nonimmigrant, temporary work visa that grants U.S. employment authorization for foreign nationals in the United States who meet specific requirements. In order to work on an H-1B visa, the foreign national must have an approved I-129 petition before starting work and be hired by a U.S. employer that is willing to sponsor the individual’s request for an H-1B visa or related applications with USCIS.

The eligibility of foreign workers with an H-1B visa to remain in the United States is governed by several different factors. If, while working on an H-1B visa, a worker changes jobs or receives a new job offer, they may be eligible for a change of status and extension of their employment authorization.

However, if they leave their position and do not apply for a change of status, they will not be eligible for continued employment authorization if their employer has dismissed them or revoked their H-1B visa.

H-1B visa holders who wish to continue their employment authorization must first file an H-1B extension of status petition with USCIS. However, they may also be eligible for extensions of up to 180 days if they are waiting for their H-1B visa application and/or I-129 petition to be approved.

Best States to Stay In The U.S

Graduating from college has so many benefits and with the US ranking highly among international destinations, it’s easy to see why so many international students apply for a visa.

However, as attractive as it might be, they can’t just spend the rest of their lives here. After earning their degree, they have only six months on a general H-1B visa or 11 months on an O-1 or E-3 visa before they need to return home. It doesn’t have to be this way though.

The options that can make it easier for them include changing their status while they’re here, asking for an extension, or making a home here. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages so it’s important to be aware of how each works.

Best Cities To Stay In The U.S

Locating the best place for any person can be a daunting task, but luckily there are websites that specialize in that. Savvy Abroad offers plenty of information about how you can live and work abroad with its extensive database of international jobs.

They even have a list of the best cities for expats so if you want your new home city to be one of them, check out their post.

San Francisco, CA – The number one spot is awarded to San Francisco, California. You get many perks from living here including being ableto live rentfreee at work, a rich social scene, and large housing options. One thing to keep in mind when considering this city is the cost of public transportation which can make it difficult for some people who are not accustomed to using it.

San Diego, CA – Number two on the list goes to San Diego, California. The weather may be much warmer than other places on this list, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s not worth visiting because its thriving art scene will make up for it.

New York, NY – Coming in at number three is New York, New York. Known for its fast pace and bustling social scene, some people may feel overwhelmed by all of it but that is where it pays off for others.

Honolulu, HI – Number four on the list goes to Honolulu, Hawaii. If you have ever dreamed of living on a beach with nothing but palm trees and blue skies then here is your chance. The cost of living is a bit higher here compared to other places which makes it not ideal for everyone.

Best Jobs Requirements For International Students

It is possible for an international student to work in the United States. However, there are certain visa requirements and processes that must be followed first. These include:

Applying for a J-1 Visa
Applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or Social Security Number (SSN)
Enrolling in an Employment Training Program (ETP)
Obtaining and maintaining a degree or certificate that aligns with your field of study. (this is required for an EAD)

Conclusion

International students who graduate from college or university must obtain an H-1B visa within 30 days of their program ending or risk deportation.

If they are unable to secure a visa, international students can file for a suspension of removal and request that Immigration Customs Enforcement release them from custody.

Finally, if all else fails, the American Opportunity Act offers permanent residency opportunities for individuals with advanced degrees.