US Citizenship and Immigration Services has revised its policy guidelines for foreign students, outlining the provision that allows STEM students to pursue OPT at startup companies.
International students and US institutions found the updates regarding eligibility requirements, school transfers, practical training, and on- and off-campus employment to be quite helpful. Since it details the extension of OPT for F-1 students in STEM fields with startup companies, its content is especially pertinent to F-1 students enrolled in STEM programs.
In its guidelines, USCIS aims to remind students, graduates, schools, and employers that, provided the startup fulfills certain requirements, OPT following a STEM degree can now be used for employment at startups.
According to a statement from USCIS, “the employer must, among other things, adhere to the training plan requirements, remain in good standing with E-Verify, and provide compensation commensurate with that provided to similarly situated US workers.”
In a LinkedIn post, FuturesAbroad founder Vandana Mahajan said, “It’s a positive stride toward providing international students with more avenues for growth and contribution in the US.”
According to Kate Moore, principal and co-founder of the Global Career Center, students frequently consider the OPT extension when deciding where and what to study.
Moore claims that include start-up environments among the options that can meet compliance requirements so that students can have access to a “uniquely American innovation ecosystem,” get firsthand experience in entrepreneurship, and learn how to navigate a rapidly changing startup.
The talent, motivation, and perspective that international students bring to startups is invaluable. Employers are also harmed when international students are excluded from the talent pool, according to Moore.
The coexistence of intentions for permanent residency and foreign residence was also covered by the guidance, which aims to clarify current policy rather than announce any new ones.
According to the guidance, “F and M students may be the beneficiary of an immigrant visa petition or permanent labor certification application and may still be able to demonstrate their intention to depart after a temporary period of stay, but they must have a foreign residence that they do not intend to abandon.”
“This progression highlights the dedication to enabling prospects for global learners while guaranteeing adherence to particular prerequisites,” stated Mahajan.