students graduating in spring

Prior to the extension, students graduating in spring could not apply for the H1-B visa, as applications were closed April 7. They do not have the facility of remaining in the US and applying next year either, because by then the OPT's 12-month deadline would have passed.

The 17-month extension allows US employers to hire spring graduates and keep them in America until their H-1B visas become effective. The new rule also automatically extends the period of stay and work authorisation for all F-1 students with pending H-1B petitions. The rule will also implement certain programme changes, including allowing students to apply for OPT within 60 days of graduation