🇺🇸 United States · Student
F-1 OPT — requirements, costs & how to apply
Duration & renewal
Initial stay: 12 months. Does not lead directly to permanent residence.
Who can apply
Open to all nationalities.
How to apply
- Confirm you meet the eligibility above.
- Gather documents and apply via the official portal: https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/students-and-exchange-visitors/optional-practical-training-opt-for-f-1-students.
Frequently asked
Does this visa lead to permanent residence?
No — it does not lead directly to permanent residence.
Sources & verification
Every figure on this page is taken from an official government source and dated. Nothing is inferred.
“Visto de estudante = residência TEMPORÁRIA pela duração dos estudos; a fonte não confere residência permanente (PR via rota pós-estudo separada). not_applicable. Programa: Optional practical training (OPT) is temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study.”
Not sure if you qualify?
Get a free, source-backed verdict on every route you're eligible for — in 3 minutes.
Get Your Free Verdict →Other United States routes
J-1 Exchange Visitor (BridgeUSA) — United States: requirements, costs & how to apply (2026)H-1B Specialty Occupation — United States: requirements, costs & how to apply (2026)L-1A Intracompany Transferee Executive or Manager — United States: requirements, costs & how to apply (2026)TN NAFTA/USMCA Professional — United States: requirements, costs & how to apply (2026)L-1B — United States: requirements, costs & how to apply (2026)D-1 Crewmembers Certification — United States: requirements, costs & how to apply (2026)CW-1 Nonimmigrant Visa Program — United States: requirements, costs & how to apply (2026)H-1B, H-1B1 and E-3 Specialty (Professional) Workers — United States: requirements, costs & how to apply (2026)Compare all Student programs →
More about emigrating to United States →
Informational only, not legal or immigration advice. Requirements change — always confirm on the official government source linked above before applying. Last verified 2026-06-22.