1 Week Left: OPT Delay Puts F-1 Job Start in Danger

A delayed Employment Authorisation Document has placed an F-1 student in a difficult situation. With the OPT start date just a week away, the student is still waiting for work authorisation approval.

The student submitted the EAD application in November 2025. Since then, the USCIS has not provided any update on the case. The uncertainty has created anxiety about employment plans.

The situation feels more stressful because some friends who applied later have already received approval. They have also received their EAD cards and started working without delay.

Experts say several students who applied for EAD in late 2025 are facing similar delays. The student is worried about losing unemployment days if approval does not arrive before the OPT start date.

However, experts explain that the OPT start date usually shifts to the EAD approval date. Because of this, the student may lose only a few unemployment days instead of facing a larger problem.

An F-1 student’s legal status remains valid while the OPT application is pending. This allows them to stay in the United States legally until work authorisation is approved.

The student has been advised to remain patient and regularly check the USCIS portal for updates. Monitoring the USCIS API may also reveal internal status changes.

They should stay alert for sudden approval notices or requests for evidence. Responding quickly to any notification can help avoid further delays in the process.