OPT Process Fail: F-1 Student Loses Job Over Delay

An F-1 visa student in the US has been waiting for three months despite paying extra for faster approval of his Optional Practical Training work permit. The unexpected delay has created uncertainty at a crucial stage of his career.

He filed his application with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services while preparing to join a new company. However, without an approved work permit, he cannot legally begin employment. The pending status has left his job offer in limbo.

The student submitted Form I-765 and later upgraded the request to premium processing by paying additional fees. Despite repeated calls and emails, he says he has received only generic responses. There has been no clear timeline for his Employment Authorization Document card.

The prolonged delay has already cost him the job opportunity. Premium processing was once considered a reliable fast track option. Many students paid high fees expecting the promised two to four week turnaround.

Over the past year, several F-1 visa holders have reported similar issues with their OPT applications. Notices are issued but final decisions are delayed for months. The student describes the situation as highly stressful and financially draining.

After paying extra for speed, he now feels stuck in the same queue as regular applicants. The uncertainty has left him without work and under pressure. His case highlights growing concerns about OPT processing timelines.