F1 OPT Start Date Gone, But No Update for 2 Months

An international student on an F-1 visa is facing a long delay in the processing of their Optional Practical Training application. The initial OPT request has remained pending with the USCIS for more than two months, causing anxiety about the outcome.

The student applied for initial OPT on December 16, 2025. They requested a start date of February 8, 2026 for employment. Despite this timeline, there has been no update from the USCIS on the case status so far.

The delay has raised fears that the application could be denied. However, immigration experts state that longer processing times do not automatically indicate a rejection. Regular non Premium Processing applications can take up to four months or even longer.

The student also worried that a recent change in residential mailing address might have caused the delay. Experts clarified that an address change does not impact case processing timelines. Still, updating the correct physical address is important.

An accurate address ensures that official notices are not lost in transit. It also helps in the safe delivery of the Employment Authorisation Document once approved. Missing such communication can create further complications.

For faster results, upgrading to Premium Processing remains the only reliable option. Premium Processing offers a decision within 30 business days. However, it involves an additional fee.

The student has been advised to maintain valid legal status while waiting. Once approved, the official employment start date will shift to the approval date. Until then, patience and compliance remain essential.