What happens if you stay over the 60 day grace period after your OPT finishes?

You need to contact an immigration attorney asap.

An F-1 student's record is maintained in the SEVIS database. Once the academic program, OPT and grace period expire, the school terminates the student in SEVIS. ICE reviews student records and, if there is no record of departure, it follows up in certain cases. An overstayed F-1 student is subject to arrest, detention and removal from the U.S. You may want to discuss your options with a knowledgeable and experienced immigration attorney. Scott D. Pollock Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. 105 W. Madison, Suite 2200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 444-1940 fax: (312) 444-1950 e-mail: [email protected] internet: www.lawfirm1.com Please visit our renovated website at www.lawfirm1.com , which allows client access to case status, enhanced information on services, and other convenient features.

If you are no longer in status, you will likely get a visit from ICE agents who will initiate removal proceedings against you. The SEVIS program keeps a check on all foreign students. If you completed your bachelors or higher degree, you should seek employment through the H1B program. An employer may file the petition on April 1 with a starting date of October 1 when H1B visas will be available. In the meantime, you should wait in your country for the visa to be issued - if you are successful in finding an employer to file the petition.