Average opt processing time 2019 Applications submitted through the USCIS online application system are routinely approved much more quickly than applications submitted by mail, often in less than two months. Jun 27, 2025 · For international students in the U. USCIS offers premium processing for F-1 students seeking optional practical training (OPT) and STEM OPT extensions. Nah, it usually takes 2. We also provide guidance for determining your Oct 26, 2024 · For instance, the average OPT processing time, without the premium option, is approximately 1. My current OPT expires on the 29th of January 2024. 5 months from the date USCIS receives the application. Understandably, there can therefore be lengthy wait times when applying to USCIS. ” Service Center Operations has expanded its capability to process casework at multiple locations, at Jan 25, 2017 · OPT Application pending for 90+ Days. By estimating the overall risk of health risk and health system expenses over the risk pool, an insurer can develop a routine finance Dec 10, 2024 · Learn the next steps to take after applying for OPT, as well as what you can expect on the status of your OPT application with USCIS. However, it’s important to note a crucial distinction: while Premium Processing assures a quicker decision, often within 30 calendar days, it doesn’t influence the outcome of your OPT application. Well, it's close to 12 weeks now and I haven't received approval/rejection. Allow time for ISRC processing of new OPT I-20 (one week), mailing your package to USCIS, and three to five months for processing by U. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. March 21 initial opt application March 25 premium processing April 1 clocked stopped and received email that i765 approved. When Should I Apply for OPT? Determining Processing Times Processing times may vary as they are updated when needed based on the volume of requests and the time of year. in their fields of study. " The student can use it during or after program completion. In the unlikely event, your application cannot be granted, you will receive an explanation for the denial. Aug 29, 2019 · H4+EAD Processing Times after Biometrics – User Data, Averages Last Updated : September 16, 2019 | by Satheesh Kumar Ilu | 36 Comments Mar 30, 2021 · These processing times exclude petitions and applications with, for example, a pending re-exam for N-400s, request for evidence (RFE), notice of intent to deny or revoke, or due to visa unavailability. Pre-completion OPT is always part-time and can be used at any time during the degree program. 5 months for 80%. Certain F-1 Processing Time The average USCIS processing time is at least 90 days from receipt of your application. It's really important to keep in mind that the Sep 8, 2024 · For instance, the average OPT processing time, without the premium option, is approximately 1. Sep 30, 2019 · Historical National Median Processing Time (in Months) for All USCIS Offices for Select Forms By Fiscal Year Fiscal Year 2014 to 2019 (up to September 30, 2019) Mar 6, 2024 · How Long Does It Take to Get an OPT Card (EAD)? The processing time for an OPT card, officially known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), varies. Oct 17, 2025 · OPT requires authorization from USCIS, and the average processing time for OPT applications is 3-6 months. Apr 27, 2025 · A year ago USCIS finished rolling out premium processing to all F-1 OPT and STEM OPT (category C03A/B/C) EAD applications. USCIS processing times have varied greatly over the past few years. Learn all about the EB-3 visa processing time in this guide! May 29, 2019 · Hi, Just wondering what is the average OPT processing time going on right now? I applied for my EAD on 15th March and the case received date is 18th March. My application took 103 The application window for Post-Completion OPT is 90 days before your program end date up until 60 days after. Jun 27, 2025 · OPT EAD card is your key to legally working after graduation. Oct 28, 2025 · Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (Post-OPT) is a type of employment authorization adjudicated by U. . Today (May 10, 2024), I decided to upgrade my case to Premium Processing. Take, for instance, the Post-Completion OPT. The processing time starts when our office receives a complete and accurate form or request. Processing Times. After making significant progress in reducing wait times for U. So if there is an audit my STEM OPT will expire. In 2000, the average processing time for naturalization applications was 5. Sep 21, 2022 · What to do when your OPT/EAD processing is delayed As many international students already know, students are advised to visit the Check Case Processing Times webpage to see the current wait/review time for OPT/STEM OPT application, Form I-765. USCIS Processing for STEM OPT Processing Time The average USCIS processing time is at least 90 days from receipt of your application. We are in the process of adjusting all processing times for service center-related forms to now list “Service Center Operations (SCOPS). com) Data from the link shows processing is slower at the moment. These processing delays are affecting all OPT applications processed around the U. Discover typical processing times, key influencing factors, how to check your status, and available expedited options. Please find current estimated processing times measured in business days for ISS e-forms below. com is not affiliated with any Apr 11, 2024 · 30 Second Recap: The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a crucial document for F-1 students seeking to work under Optional Practical Training (OPT). While You Wait for Your OPT EAD Card To verify the current average OPT processing time with USCIS, check the I-765 USCIS processing times. Apr 1, 2025 · Get accurate green card processing times based on current USCIS data, visa bulletin wait periods, and your category and country of origin. A fiscal year runs from December through September of the following year. Will I be able to stay in the USA but not work while waiting for PERM to be approved? Dec 20, 2023 · Determining Processing Times Processing times are updated as needed based on the volume of requests and may vary. USCIS Processing for OPT Processing Time The average USCIS processing time is at least 90 days from receipt of your application. However, if you don't want to stress about it, premium processing. May 19, 2025 · This document discusses different types of optional practical training (OPT) including: required forms, processes, and updating SEVIS. You will need some specific information about your case to use the processing times webpage and case inquiry tools. We advise you to apply as early as possible to allow about 90 days of processing time, but please note that your actual processing time could be longer or shorter. Learn how long I-130, I-485, and other forms take—and what to do if your case is delayed. Please keep in mind that this processing time can change at any time, but these are our best reports of recent trends. Jan 31, 2025 · CNET covers everything you need to know for the 2025 tax season. Dec 22, 2024 · Learn how to use premium processing to expedite the processing time of the Form I-765 for Optional Practical Training (OPT) Any chance of getting OPT approved before 3. Contains performance data on all application and petition form types submitted to USCIS for adjudication. Understand the OPT processing timeline, from application to approval, and plan accordingly for your international student status and employment opportunities. It is available to eligible F-1 students for the purpose of gaining practical experience directly related to their program of study. Feb 19, 2025 · For instance, the average OPT processing time, without the premium option, is approximately 1. I-765 EAD - USCIS Case Tracker (opttimeline. On 4/12/2021, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that F-1 students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) can now file their form I-765 online if filling under the pre-completion, post-completion and the STEM Sorry for the lengthy email, however I applied for the STEM OPT extension with a receipt date of Nov 20, 2023. Can you please comment on the recent timeline for STEM Opt premium processing? Update: Still waiting for approval. To obtain an OPT EAD, you must meet eligibility requirements, apply through your DSO, and file Form I-765 with USCIS. My F1 visa has also been expired since July 2023. Jun 5, 2025 · This encompasses everything from Pre-Completion OPT and Post-Completion OPT to the 24-month STEM OPT extension. By going to the page, you will be able to see if you are eligible to reach out to USCIS to file an Outside of Normal Processing Times service request Oct 27, 2025 · Currently, the average processing time for Form I-765 across all USCIS service centers, including all categories, is 6. It allows students to get real-world work experience related to their field of Aug 22, 2025 · Navigate the OPT application process. immigration applications in 2024, USCIS processing times are increasing in 2025, except for the K-1 Fiancé Visa petition. I did PP last year, Aug 11. Dec 20, 2023 · Determining Processing Times Processing times are updated as needed based on the volume of requests and may vary. What is Optional Practical Training? Optional practical training is one type of work permission available for eligible F-1 students. The following guide on I applied for STEM OPT on Jan 20th, 2024 with normal processing. These processing times are based on the age of the workload that USCIS has awaiting adjudication (pending cases) and combines data from all of the USCIS offices. As of my last update, it typically takes anywhere from 2 to 5 months, but this can fluctuate based on USCIS processing times. The OPT STEM Extension begins on the day after the end date on your EAD card for Post-Completion OPT and ends 24 months later, regardless of the date your OPT STEM Extension is officially approved by USCIS. Premium processing provides expedited processing services within 30 business days. Health insurance or medical insurance (also known as medical aid in South Africa) is a type of insurance that covers the whole or a part of the risk of a person incurring medical expenses. Real Examples + Templates for Approval. After 2 months, I applied for premium processing on March 25th, 2024. How can I check the status of my OPT application after I mail it to the USCIS? Apr 14, 2025 · This encompasses everything from Pre-Completion OPT and Post-Completion OPT to the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Got my EAD card delivered Aug 30. Please find current estimated processing times measured in business days for ISS immigration requests below. Nov 17, 2025 · As with your application for Post-OPT, the average processing time by USCIS is 2-3 months. Jul 20, 2019 · The average processing time for OPT is currently 3 months, but it can be shorter or longer in individual cases, further highlighting the importance of applying well in advance. Here's the latest uscis processing times information for the texas service centre. However, please visit the USCIS Processing Times(link is external) website for the most up to date processing times. As with other types of insurance, risk is shared among many individuals. The green clock symbolizes short processing times (1-3 days), the yellow and orange clocks represent slightly longer processing times (1-4 weeks) and the red clock symbolizes long processing times (2-6 months). OPT allows international students to Alert USCIS processing times for certain form types may no longer reference a specific service center location (for example, Vermont Service Center). Apr 14, 2025 · This encompasses everything from Pre-Completion OPT and Post-Completion OPT to the 24-month STEM OPT extension. The time starts when the ISS receives the form both complete and accurate. Which Forms Are Eligible For Premium Processing? Currently, premium processing is only available for the following employment-based Feb 28, 2025 · For instance, the average OPT processing time, without the premium option, is approximately 1. The problem is my STEM-OPT expires in July, 2025. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. I decided to go with the option of Pre-Completion OPT since I will be pursuing a combined BS/MS program, so I am not too concerned with eating into my OPT days for the BS level. The following table shows the national average processing times for select forms based on all USCIS Offices for Fiscal Years 2015 through 2019. May 17, 2025 · Latest USCIS Processing Times As the government body tasked with administering the United States’ lawful immigration system, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible for adjudicating millions of applications, petitions and requests for immigration benefits each year. Nov 14, 2025 · Explore 2025 USCIS processing times for key immigration forms along with & tips to minimize delays when applying for legal status in the USA. With Audit it is likely it will take until August or September, 2025. It displays the number of applications and petitions received, approved, denied, pending, and processing time by quarter and fiscal year to date. Applied for OPT on 3/14/2023 and I have a job start date for 5/1/2023. Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) is 12-month work authorization available to F-1 international students who plan to seek employment in the U. This information is also found on USCIS receipt notices, and some information may be found on a copy of your application, petition, or request. I applied for Pre-Completion OPT I-765 online on March 15, 2024. Aug 22, 2025 · The processing duration for an OPT application, submitted on Form I-765, can vary. navigating post-graduation employment opportunities, the OPT Premium Processing can be a pivotal point of consideration. USCIS processing times 2025 are changing. My current opt EAD expires on 16th April. —USCIS is directed to prioritize the timely processing of citizenship and other applications, with a goal of adjudicating all requests within six months of submission. Did anytime who applied during that time, I applied for normal processing on 12/22/23. Jan 25, 2017 · OPT Application pending for 90+ Days. Learn about OPT extension processing times, USCIS current processing times, and premium processing for F-1 OPT. May 22, 2025 · Discover the estimated stem opt processing time 2024 and factors affecting it. Jun 24, 2019 · Colleges are seeing increases in processing times for international students applying for work authorization through the Optional Practical Training, or OPT, program, leaving some students with job or internship offers unable to take up their positions on time. The immigration status of the petitioner is provided on Form I-130, Petition Jun 17, 2025 · For instance, the average OPT processing time, without the premium option, is approximately 1. We are sending this update to provide additional context and Oct 28, 2025 · The EB-3 is the third preference level for employment-based immigration. While average processing times have been 90-100 days from date of USCIS receipt of the application, during the Spring/Summer 2019 (the busiest application period) we experienced processing times of 4 months or more. Recent data indicates average approval times ranging from approximately 33 to 74 days, though these times are subject to change. Pay the extra fee and the agency must adjudicate your Form I-765 within 30… Learn about federal student loan interest rates, how they are determined, and their impact on repayment. com tracks data from US Dept of State, USCIS, DHS, USTravelDocs for latest processing times, reports, analysis. Similarly, for green card applications, the average processing time in 2000 was approximately one year, and in 2020 it was more than two and a half years. Current USCIS processing times for H1B, H4, L, F1, EAD, Green Cards (I-140, Advance parole, I-485), Others Sep 24, 2019 · OPT EAD card processing time can take 30 days; however, faster at 7-10 days after approval and can go 90-120 days as whole. Again, the best way to protect yourself from this USCIS processing time chaos is for you to take timely action to apply as early as USCIS will accept your OPT application. Post-completion OPT authorization allows F-1 students to work in a job directly related to their major after they graduate from WashU or, in some cases, while they work […] Alert USCIS processing times for certain form types may no longer reference a specific service center location (for example, Vermont Service Center). Guarantees decision in 30 days. ” Service Center Operations has expanded its capability to process casework at multiple locations, at How long will it take to get my OPT EAD card? USCIS processing times have varied greatly over the past few years. Home News Items Update on OPT Processing Delays Update on OPT Processing Delays Dear Students, The ISO continues to monitor F-1 Optional Practical Training processing times as approval timelines have been delayed as compared to previous years. How can Conexus MedStaff help me with this process? Colleges are seeing increases in processing times for international students applying for work authorization through the Optional Practical Training, or OPT, program, leaving some students with job or internship offers unable to take up their positions on time. In addition to data on the processed forms listed above, the report provides data and information on the country of birth of the applicant or petitioner, the average processing time by form type, the field office or service center that processed the application, and the date that the application initially was filed. VisaGrader. Eligible students can apply to receive up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization before completing their academic studies (pre-completion) and/or after completing their academic studies (post-completion). Regular OPT application processing takes 3-5 months, while premium processing can shorten it to 1 month. Discover how long it will take to receive a J-1 visa, including the J-1 visa processing time and tips to make the process faster. 5-3 months. Been waiting too long, so switched to premium processing on 3/29/24. As a result, the times posted on the historic processing times website may differ from what is on the processing times website. Oct 23, 2025 · The Average OPT Application Processing Time Alright, let's get to the million-dollar question: How long does it take for OPT to be approved? While there isn't a fixed, guaranteed timeline, the USCIS typically aims to process OPT applications within 90 to 120 days. I did the online application. S. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is defined in the regulations as "temporary employment for practical training directly related to the student's major area of study. In this guide, we'll walk you through what it is, how to apply, processing times, fees, and what to do once it's in your hands. Aug 31, 2025 · This site provides applicants the ability to see an estimate of the time to completion from submission of USCIS forms based on its adjudication location and subtype. Given this, is the premium really worth it? In many scenarios, time is of the essence, but there might be alternate ways to maneuver. Oct 31, 2025 · The best part of premium processing is that if the USCIS cannot take action or respond to your application within the applicable time, you will receive a full refund of the amount you spent on premium processing. Approved Date: Card Produced Date: Card Shipped: Card delivered: When I applied for my Post Completion OPT back in May of 2019, there was an average processing time of 100-120 days for the USCIS to respond to the initial OPT application. Welcome to OPT F-1 students who have been in full-time student status for at least one academic year by their program end date are eligible for a total of 12 months of OPT. Online account just says clock stopped. Application type: STEM OPT Premium Processing: Yes Receipt Date: 3/29/2024. However, this is just an estimate, and the actual processing time can fluctuate. Aug 21, 2025 · Learn where to find, and how to decipher, USCIS processing times for common immigration documents with this helpful guide. Step by Step Guide to Expedite OPT EAD Application Processing with USCIS. I know I messed up by applying so late but I didn't have any offer and I read that the average OPT processing time is 6 weeks. 5 months as shown through uscis? What has been everyone’s experience so far? I applied for OPT recently and trying to understand if I can have the card in hand before the end date of my ead (June ‘24) Sep 6, 2024 · For instance, the average OPT processing time, without the premium option, is approximately 1. The data from 2019 runs up to March 31st, 2019 and will update monthly. Jan 13, 2025 · Certain F-1 students who receive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees may apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion optional practical training (OPT). ISSS encourages all students to apply for OPT as early as possible due to USCIS processing times. There is no way to expedite an application. Jul 14, 2021 · UCSCIS Switches to Historical National Median Processing Times In April 2021, USCIS decided to let go of the historical national average processing times and opt for historical national average median processing times instead. Think of it as a fast-pass ticket fro… Jun 22, 2020 · An official website of the United States government Here's how you know VisaGrader. Students must maintain valid F-1 status at the time of the application and have not used OPT at the same degree level or a higher degree level previously. I am past my start date of 10th July and 60 days grace period. I'm worried it will get later than I expected. Below is an example of where you can find specific information on USCIS correspondence. Should I start packing my bags to go back to my With average processing without audit that means it should get approved by May1st, 2025. If you have 12 months (365 days) or more of full-time CPT, you will The average USCIS processing time to issue the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is 90 days. 6 months, while in 2020 it was 11 months. The OPT application timeline is critical for F-1 students: Earliest application: 90 days before program end date Latest application: 60 days after program end date USCIS filing deadline: Within 30 days of DSO recommendation Processing time: 90-150 days typically Plan ahead as late applications may result in work authorization gaps or denials. May 20, 2024 · Check OPT case status and processing times. Processing times can vary, but once you receive your EAD, you can begin working in a job related to your field of study The clock in the column "processing time" represents the average time it takes to process your request. I am an international student and I applied for OPT in the first week of May. nsjib kdh mimwf txmt qssddmi ksmneo ape idqbo lqjx miqwp tqqtyp wcfaz fqhnqdu ccnpe jrrhjh