Changing Employers During OPT: Everything You Need to Know

International students pursuing Optional Practical Training (OPT) can often feel uncertain about switching employers, but the truth is that such changes are allowed under certain conditions. This article aims to clarify the details and requirements surrounding the change of employers during OPT.

Eligibility and Rules for Changing Employers during OPT

For an international student with work authorization such as OPT, job changes or switching employers are allowed, provided the job aligns with their field of study. During their 12-month OPT period, a student can work for multiple employers related to their academic discipline, without any fixed number of employers or specific obligations.

The primary requirement is that all work history must be relevant to the student's field of study, and they must maintain an average of at least 20 hours of work per week.

Gaining Guidance and Resolving Uncertainties

It's perfectly normal for international students to have doubts and uncertainties during their OPT period, especially when considering job changes. Many students, myself included, have faced similar concerns. Fortunately, seeking advice from peers or colleagues can provide valuable insights and clarification.

After thorough analysis, it was confirmed that international students are indeed allowed to switch between multiple jobs during their OPT period, provided the changes adhere to the established guidelines and work history remains relevant to their field of study.

Practical Steps for Changing Employers

Here are some practical steps international students can follow to ensure a smooth transition between OPT employers:

Stay Relevant: Ensure that each job change remains aligned with your academic discipline. Maintain Weekly Hours: Adhere to the requirement of working a minimum of 20 hours per week to meet OPT compliance. Notify the Student Exchange Body: Provide all employment details to the designated student exchange body responsible for the welfare of international students in the USA. Secure Documentation: Obtain a job letter from your new employer to facilitate the process of reporting your new job to the student exchange body.

Conclusion

In conclusion, international students on OPT are allowed to change employers during their 12-month period, as long as their work history remains relevant to their academic discipline and the minimum weekly working hours are maintained. By following these guidelines and taking the necessary steps, students can navigate the process with confidence and explore opportunities that align with their career goals.

Keywords: OPT, change of employers, international student employment