US Work VisaGuide 2025
Everything international students need to know about working in the US. From OPT to H-1B, understand your options and plan your career path.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws change frequently. Always consult with an immigration attorney for your specific situation.
Work Visa Types
F-1 OPT
Optional Practical Training
Work authorization for F-1 students to gain practical experience in their field of study.
- No employer sponsorship needed initially
- Can work for any employer
- STEM extension available
- Limited duration
- Must be related to field of study
- Requires timely application
H-1B
Specialty Occupation Visa
Most common work visa for professional jobs requiring specialized knowledge.
- Dual intent (can pursue green card)
- Spouse can work (H-4 EAD)
- 6-year maximum stay
- Annual cap with lottery
- Employer-sponsored
- Job-specific
O-1
Extraordinary Ability Visa
For individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
- No annual cap
- Faster processing
- Can self-petition
- High bar for qualification
- Requires extensive documentation
- Not for entry-level
L-1
Intracompany Transferee
For employees transferring from foreign office to US office of same company.
- No annual cap
- Spouse can work
- Path to green card
- Requires 1 year abroad
- Same employer only
- Manager/specialized knowledge required
OPT Application Timeline
Apply for OPT
90 days before - 60 days after program endSubmit I-765 to USCIS
Receive EAD Card
2-4 months after applicationEmployment Authorization Document
Start Employment
Within 90 days of EAD start dateMust find qualifying employment
Report Employment
Within 10 days of startingUpdate SEVP Portal
Apply for STEM Extension
90 days before OPT expiresIf eligible for 24-month extension
STEM OPT Extension Eligible Fields
If your degree is in a STEM field, you may be eligible for a 24-month extension of your OPT, giving you up to 3 years of work authorization.
H-1B Application Timeline
Employer Files LCA
Before H-1B petitionLabor Condition Application with DOL
H-1B Registration
March 1-20Employer registers for lottery
Lottery Results
Late MarchSelection notification
File H-1B Petition
April 1 - June 30If selected in lottery
H-1B Start Date
October 1Earliest start date for new H-1B
H-1B Lottery Statistics (FY2024)
Top H-1B Sponsors
| Company | Annual Approvals | Denial Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | 10,000+ | 3% |
| 8,000+ | 2% | |
| Microsoft | 7,000+ | 2% |
| Meta | 5,000+ | 2% |
| Apple | 4,000+ | 2% |
| Deloitte | 4,000+ | 5% |
| Infosys | 15,000+ | 8% |
| TCS | 12,000+ | 10% |
* Data based on USCIS H-1B employer data hub. Lower denial rates generally indicate better immigration support.
Tips for International Students
Start Early
Begin your job search 6-12 months before graduation. Many companies have long hiring timelines for visa-requiring candidates.
Target H-1B Friendly Companies
Research companies with strong H-1B sponsorship records. Large tech companies and consulting firms typically sponsor more visas.
Be Upfront About Status
Mention your work authorization status early in the process. Many companies are happy to sponsor but need to plan ahead.
Consider Cap-Exempt Employers
Universities, nonprofits, and research institutions are exempt from the H-1B cap, making sponsorship easier.
Keep Your Documents Ready
Maintain organized copies of your I-20, EAD, passport, and all immigration documents for quick reference.
Have a Backup Plan
Given H-1B lottery uncertainty, consider multiple employers, STEM extension, or other visa options as backups.