Step 3: Keep Your SEVP Portal Information Up to Date
Once your OPT is approved, you must use the SEVP Portal to keep your information current. Federal regulations require that you report any changes within 10 days .
IMPORTANT Keeping your SEVP Portal up to date is a legal requirement during your entire OPT period. Failing to report changes in your employment, address, or contact information within 10 days can result in termination of your F-1 status and loss of OPT benefits. Even if nothing changes, you are still responsible for checking that your information remains accurate in the SEVP Portal at all times.
You are responsible for updating: Your U.S. residential address Your U.S. phone number Your personal email address Your employer’s name and address Your job title The start and end dates of each job A brief explanation of how your job relates to your major Any periods of unemployment The date you leave the U.S. (if before your OPT end date) Any change in visa status (such as H- 1B approval)
REMINDERS 1.Unemployment Limit You are allowed a maximum of 90 days of unemployment during your 12-month OPT period. The SEVIS system tracks unemployment based on your portal updates. Exceeding 90 days will result in termination of your F-1 status and may lead to unlawful presence, which can impact future visa or immigration benefits. Unpaid work may count as employment if it is directly related to your field and meets labor law standards (e.g., internships or volunteer roles at nonprofit organizations).
2. Grace Period After OPT Ends After OPT ends, you have a 30-day grace period. You may:
Prepare to leave the U.S. Transfer to another school.
Apply to change your immigration status.(If eligible) You cannot work during the 30-day grace period.
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