Do you have to maintain f1 visa status while you are in TPS status?

Question

Do you have to maintain f1 visa status while you are in TPS status?

Anonymous Jun 28, 2015 3 views 3 answers

Do you have to maintain f1 visa status while you are in TPS status? The reason I am asking this is because if i maintain F1 status and continue studying I will finish my degree in 12 months and the TPS is for 18 months. I need to apply for OPT within 60 days of graduation to be in status. Should I apply for OPT after graduation or can I wait for TPS to expire?

Carl Michael ShustermanImmigration AttorneyLos Angeles, CA · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T15:12:12+00:00

Carl Michael ShustermanImmigration AttorneyLos Angeles, CA

Carl Michael ShustermanImmigration AttorneyLos Angeles, CA · Jun 15, 2026

If you want to get OPT after graduation than you need to maintain your F-1 status. Please see

0 upvotes

Aggie Rachel HoffmanImmigration AttorneyLos Angeles, CA · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T15:12:12+00:00

Aggie Rachel HoffmanImmigration AttorneyLos Angeles, CA

Aggie Rachel HoffmanImmigration AttorneyLos Angeles, CA · Jun 15, 2026

You cannot have employment authorization from two sources, and you are not eligible for OPT if you are not a full time student.

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Alexander Joseph SegalImmigration AttorneyNew York, NYNY licensed · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T15:12:12+00:00

Alexander Joseph SegalImmigration AttorneyNew York, NYNY licensed

Alexander Joseph SegalImmigration AttorneyNew York, NYNY licensed · Jun 15, 2026

it is up to you. If you want to be in a valid nonimmigrant status, TPS does not give you as it is a humanitarian program, not nonimmigrant status, you should.

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Do you have to maintain f1 visa status while you are in TPS status?

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