Employment Authorization Document:

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) provides valid permission for an international student to work anywhere in the United States. This document may signify that the student is in the final stage (3^rd stage) of the green card process and can remain employed in the United States until the student receives his/her green card. It can also signify that the student has received authorization to work in the United States under Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Optional Practical Training (OPT):

Upon graduation, an international student with an F-1 visa status is eligible for twelve months of Optional Practical Training. This allows the student to apply the theoretical knowledge obtained in an academic program to a practical work experience. The employment opportunity must directly relate to the student’s major or field of study, can be a full or part time position and can be located anywhere in the country. Employment under OPT must be approved and authorized by both the Office of International Education at Ohio State University and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before the student can begin employment. Authorization for OPT may take up to 3-4 months. Once a student’s 12 months of OPT expires, the student would need to find an employer to sponsor the H1-B temporary work visa.

Definition of H1-B and Qualifications

The H-1B visa is a temporary work visa granted to foreign professionals employed in a specialty occupation. To qualify for the H-1B visa, a foreign professional must have the educational equivalent of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college in the United States.

How To Apply for the H1-B Visa

Application for the H-1B visa is made by the employer through the Department of Labor and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The employer must file a labor condition application (LCA) with the Department of Labor attesting to several items, including payment of prevailing wages for the position, and the working conditions offered. For more information on how to apply, please visit: http://uscis.gov/graphics/index.htm and http://atlas.doleta.gov/foreign/h-1b.asp

Length of Time the H1-B Visa is Valid For

The H1-B visa is valid for three years but can be renewed one time, for a maximum time length of six years.

Length of H1-B Visa Process

The application process for the H1-B visa generally takes between 3-4 months. This process can be expedited for an additional cost of $1000.

Cost of the H1-B Visa:

The cost of the H1-B visa is approximately $1400.