Can I travel to the USA with an ESTA while my OPT application is pending?
I from Austria and studied in the USA for a while. After graduating I applied for post-completion Optional Practical Training authorization (OPT). However, this is where my problem starts. I had to leave the country right afterwards. I know that this was not a good idea but I had to have surgery in my home country. Besides I had no place to stay in the USA and no money and obviously I was not allowed to work. My OPT application is now being processed. I wonder if can I reenter the USA with an ESTA before I get my EAD card for the OPT?
Best Answer
If you enter the USA on any status other that your F-1 student visa (such as your ESTA), there is a high chance that your SEVIS record and F-1 student status will be terminated. This will prevent you from being able to work on your OPT once it is approved.
The most simple next step is to wait until your OPT is approved and have your university or a trusted friend mail your new EAD to you in Austria. If you are unable to wait in Austria, you should contact the international student center of your school/university to get their advice on entering the US after your program completion date while you are still waiting to receive your EAD.
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Can I travel while my OPT application is pending?
You may travel abroad and reenter while your I-765 OPT application is pending without your departure canceling your OPT application. You must reenter the U.S. before the graduation date on your I-20. To reenter you must have the following documents: Valid passport.Can I travel while my OPT EAD application is in process?
Students who have an EAD card for post-completion OPT and evidence of either a job or a job offer are allowed to leave and re-enter the U.S. during their OPT period.Can I travel before my OPT is approved?
Pending OPT ApplicationInternational Travel is NOT recommended before the OPT is approved and before you have received your EAD card. If your OPT application is rejected or denied while you are outside of the U.S., you will not able to re-enter the U.S. in F-1 status.Can I be in the US while waiting for OPT?
Yes. though you can remain in the U.S. while your OPT is pending, even beyond the expiry of your grace period. Example: If your completion date is May 19, your grace period expires July 18, and you chose a start date of July 18 for OPT.Tips on Travel to US While Petition Pending
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