Here are some of the most frequently asked questions. If you don't find the answer to your question or to review our candidate profiles, please call or send us a message!

is an opt worker a student?

International students on F visas (student visas) are eligible for a 12-month optional practical training (OPT) during which they receive temporary employment authorization. While students may apply for a pre-completion OPT during the course of their studies, most choose to do a post-completion OPT after having graduated. Thus, your OPT worker is most likely to be a new graduate from a US university or college.

am i responsible or liable for the opt worker during his/her opt?

The student's school is the sponsor for the student's visa and OPT, not the employer. An OPT student may change jobs and be terminated (for a lawful reason) and is not tied to one employer. Therefore the employer does not bear responsibility for the OPT student.

Is the process long, expensive, or difficult to hire an opt student?

It is actually quite simple and quick to hire an OPT worker. The window during which students can apply for their OPT is quite large (from 90 days prior to graduation up until 60 days after graduating). There is no extensive paperwork or process required from the employer.

can an opt student be paid a sub-standard wage?

An OPT worker cannot receive sub-standard wages and must be compensated fairly. OPT students are recently graduated and often have limited practical experience so, depending on the candidate and his/her profile & experience, an entry-level salary may be appropriate. Also note that OPT students do not pay Social Security or Medicare taxes, which represents a 15% savings for you and your OPT hire.

does an opt student speak good english?

The OPT worker will have graduated from a US university or college (typically receiving a Bachelor's or Master's) which requires a good handle of the English language. They have studied in English and know the terms & lingo pertaining to their industry or field of study. Of course, you would always interview the OPT student before offering him/her a job and would be able to asses his/her English level then.

how much does it cost to recruit through opt hires?

There is NO cost to you to review profiles, interview candidates, or even hire a OPT worker through us. 

can i hire an opt worker permanently after the 12 months?

Please review our Options post-OPT page.