Hi everybody,
My name is David and I am a senior international student at the University of North Georgia. Just like any other senior, I am currently looking for jobs or internships for next year. As an international student, I would like to know what people responds to the question “Will you now or in the future require a sponsorship?” when applying to a company. I usually respond yes but i feel like that is getting many of my applications rejected. What are you responding to that question?
If you are looking for a short term job (and are allowed to do so with the type of visa you are on), then check no. If you want a permanent job and WILL require sponsorship for a change of visa type, then you have to answer ‘yes’.
What good would it do you to get a job offer you can’t accept, or get a job you have to leave because your visa is the wrong type?
If you graduate with a certified STEM major from a Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) approved school, you are eligible for a 12 month F1 visa extension for a job related to your major called Optional Practical Training (OPT). No “sponsorship” required, but there are a number of conditions (see below).
There is also a further 24 month extension available beyond the initial 12 months.
Conditions include:
Have completed a degree in an eligible STEM field from a SEVP certified U.S. school.
Maintained lawful F-1 status.
Have employment through an employer enrolled in USCIS's E-Verify employment eligibility verification program.
Work with the employer to complete a formal training (I-983) and learning objectives.
Be employed at least 20 hours per week in a position directly related to the STEM degree.
I could do an OPT which lasts up to three years at any company under my student visa. If I just want to the OPT, what would you check then?
The college you are graduating from remains the “official sponsor” for F1, OPT and extensions.
You would check NO.