H-1B Approval Shock: F-1 Status Ends Mid Process?

An international student on an F 1 visa has reportedly faced a denial of their STEM OPT application. The student had also applied for an H 1B visa while continuing their studies in the United States.

According to the case details, the student’s H 1B petition was not filed under Change of Status from the F 1 visa. Instead, the petition was approved under consular processing.

This means the student would have to travel to their home country for a visa interview before returning to the United States. However, an unexpected administrative issue created complications in the process.

Following the H 1B approval, the student’s SEVIS record was marked as completed. Because of this change, the STEM OPT application was automatically denied.

Immigration experts say the SEVIS record should not have been closed in this situation. Since the H 1B petition was not filed under Change of Status, the SEVIS record was expected to remain active.

The closure of the SEVIS record is now being viewed as a possible administrative error. Because of this mistake, the student’s immigration status could face complications.

Experts advise the student to immediately contact their Designated School Officer. The student should inform the officer that the SEVIS record may have been closed incorrectly.

The Designated School Officer can then request an SEVP data fix to restore the SEVIS record. Correcting the record quickly is important for the student to maintain legal status in the United States.

In addition to this step, the student may also consider filing a Motion to Reopen the STEM OPT application. Legal experts recommend consulting an immigration attorney before proceeding with this option.