Post Study Work Visa in USA 2025 – After completing your studies in the U.S., you may be eligible for a post-study work visa. This visa allows you to stay and gain work experience for a limited time.

This article outlines the details and benefits of the post-study work visa to help you decide if it’s right for you.

What is a post-study US work visa?

A post-study work visa in the United States is offered to students who have completed a U.S. educational program. This visa allows graduating students who have earned their degree or certificate within the last 60 months to stay in the U.S. and apply for jobs related to their field of study.

The students must have a

Along with gaining valuable real-world experience, they may also receive other benefits while on the visa, such as access to social security benefits and Medicare eligibility, if they meet certain criteria. Obtaining this visa helps graduates pursue their career goals while offering key immigration benefits and opportunities.

How can I apply for a post-study work visa in the USA in 2025?

An F-1 visa for international students expires once they graduate. Graduates can remain in the US to finish an internship or obtain practical learning through short-term work experience by applying for a Post Study Work Permit. Every student with a F-1 or M-1 study visa is qualified for a post-study employment permit in the United States.

CPT Vs OPT

If students in the U.S. with study visas qualify for CPT while enrolled, off-campus work is not allowed. However, to legally stay and work in the U.S. for up to 12 months after graduation, they need an OPT or STEM OPT extension

You can apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) during your course, and OPT can be completed before or after graduation. International students are only eligible for 12 months of practical training total. So, if a student uses all of their OPT or CPT while they are still enrolled, they will not be eligible for this type of F-1 visa extension. The duration of a study Work Permit in the USA for non-stem programs is one year, and stem programs are three years.

After submitting your application, you will receive details about biometric services, payment, and the next steps, which may include an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. After completing the process, post-study workers can access up to three years of flexible employment in the USA. This can lead to higher wages and possible pathways to residency.

What are the benefits of having a US post-study work visa in 2025?

A post study work visa in the United States provides a wealth of amazing benefits. Students with this type of visa can receive help in finding suitable work placements to gain experience in their chosen career field. They can also obtain legal work status and access valuable resources, including employment and education opportunities.

With a US post-study work visa, students can travel freely throughout the United States for the duration of their stay. This allows them to explore different parts of the country during holidays, short breaks, or semester breaks. Lastly, with a US post-study work visa, many students become eligible to apply for permanent residence after just two years. It’s an amazing opportunity for overseas students looking to take advantage of all that the United States has to offer!

With an F-1 visa with an OPT extension, you can bring your dependents on F-2 visa

If you find a job, you can a job during this period, and your employer is ready to register your employment with USCIS. You can upgrade your visa to work visa and extend it based on the requirement.

How long does a US post-study work visa last?

If you wish to continue staying in the USA after completing your studies, you can apply for a US post-study work visa. This is a great option because this visa allows you to stay and work in the country for up to three years. It provides an opportunity to gain valuable experience in a field of your choice.. As an added bonus, you also get certain privileges that come with the visa, such as living and working without sponsorship. Thus, the US post study work visa definitely adds value to the education which you have already gained.

Can I extend my US post-study work visa?

If you are an international student studying in the USA, you may want to consider extending your post-study work visa. With each visa extension, you will receive additional benefits that can help you reach your career goals. These benefits include entry into sectors like technology & engineering, higher wages, extended stay options, and valuable work experience. This is a great way for students to gain practical experience that would benefit them when entering the job market. If you want to stay and gain valuable experience working in the USA, consider extending your post-study work visa today!

To apply for an OPT extension, follow the steps given below:

• Enter an OPT request in SEVIS through your Designated School Official (DSO)
• Sign the I-20 form as provided by DSO
• Complete the application for Employment Authorization
• Submit the application form, OPT extension fee, and supporting documents
• Answer any request for evidence from USCIS
• Get Approved

What are the conditions of my US post-study work visa?

If you are looking to Study in the United States, you may be eligible for a post-study work visa. The conditions of this type of visa vary and often depend on the specific university or college that you attended and the program in which you took part. These visas allow international students to stay in the U.S. for up to one year after graduation. This applies to those who have completed their studies at a U.S. institution. During this time, they can work with any employer of their choice. This helps them gain experience and establish professional contacts.

Post-study workers may also take advantage of several benefits, such as health insurance coverage and tax exemptions when applicable. Note that the duration of your visa can be affected by factors like dropping out of your program early or failing any part of it. In some cases, post-study work visas may also be renewed or extended. By doing this, it’s possible to continue living in the US after successfully completing your degree.

Here are a few conditions you need to fulfil for OPT

• Your employment must be directly related to your major
• Apply for your OPT before completing all work needed for your degree
• You must maintain lawful F-1 status / M1 status after completing the course
• You can work before or after the completion of your degree or both
• You may stay and work in the US for up to 12 months after the completion of your coursework

OPT post-graduation requires the following things:

• OPT work must be full-time, preferably 40 hours a week
• Applications for post-completion OPT must be received by USCIS before the completion of the degree
• All OPT must be completed within 14 months after completion of your degree

When to apply for my US Post work visa/ OPT

Whether pursuing or starting a degree in America, it’s essential to understand post-study work permit requirements. This knowledge will be incredibly helpful when it’s time to plan your next steps.

• For a STEM degree, pre-completion OPT can be applied 3 months before you complete your first academic year.
• For a STEM degree, post-completion OPT can be applied from 90 days before completing your degree to within 60 days of graduating.
• For STEM OPT extension, you can apply from 90 days prior to the expiry of your current OPT employment authorization.
• For a Non-STEM degree, post-completion OPT can be applied from 90 days before completing your degree to within 60 days of graduating.
• For a  Non- STEM degree, pre-completion OPT can be applied 3 months before you complete your first academic year.

Conclusion

It’s a wonderful opportunity to get a post-study work Visa in the USA to settle there further and kick-start your career. Even if you plan to return to your home country, it is still possible to stay in the USA and gain some experience. This will give you a significant advantage over your peers. If you’re aiming to study and work abroad in the USA for the fall intake in 2025, fill out the form below and get in touch with us.