Hello,

Q1. I want to ask about the 17 month extension for OPT. My current OPT expires in May. If my employer applies for H-1B in April and it gets approved, will I still need to file 17 month extension?

Q2. Lets assume that my employer will not file for H-1B this year and so I would need to get extension. Does the employer really need to be e-verified? Also, can I swtich employers anytime during my 17 month extension?

I would apreciate any help.

Thanks.

Yes, if your current OPT expires in May, your H-1B petition can only start at the beginning of the next fiscal year, FY 2012; October 1, 2011. There will otherwise be a gap. This is the reason they grant the STEM OPT.

To qualify for the OPT, yes, they must register with E-Verify. These are things to discuss with the HR and their immigration counsel.