I’m originally from Azerbaijan and have been living in Kansas for about two years on a student visa. My program is ending soon, and I’m really worried about what happens next. I’ve heard of people applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT), while others change their status if they find an employer willing to sponsor them. The problem is, I don’t know if I can stay legally in Kansas while waiting for that kind of application to process. Do I have to leave immediately when my visa ends, or is there some grace period that gives me a chance to figure things out?

Question

Lalita Chakraborty · Accepted Answer

Yes, as an F-1 student you usually get a 60-day grace period after your program ends, so you don’t have to leave right away. During that time you can apply for OPT or prepare for a change of status.

Nkosinathi Ndlovu · Answer

If you want to stay longer, you’ll need to act quickly before that grace period expires.

Mahboubeh Mahboubeh · Answer

If you apply for OPT on time, you can remain lawfully while the application is pending. If an employer is ready to sponsor you for a work visa, you can also file for a change of status, but it must be submitted before your grace period ends.

Overstaying past that deadline can cause problems for future visas. Your best move is to plan now and file the right paperwork while you’re still in valid status.

Farzana Mahmudov

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