1. What Is OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows international students on F-1 visas to gain practical work experience in the U.S. after completing their studies.
- Pre-Completion OPT – Part-time work while studying.
- Post-Completion OPT – Full-time work after graduation (up to 12 months).
- STEM OPT Extension – Students in science, tech, engineering, or math can extend by 24 months (total up to 36 months).
2. Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Student status | Must hold a valid F-1 visa |
| Accredited school | Must study at an SEVP-certified institution |
| Study duration | Completed at least one full academic year |
| Application window | Apply up to 90 days before or within 60 days after graduation |
| Employment type | Must be directly related to the student’s major |
Applicants must submit Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) to USCIS. Once approved, they receive an EAD card allowing legal employment.
3. The OPT Application Process
- Request OPT recommendation from your university Your DSO (Designated School Official) updates SEVIS with OPT details.
- Submit Form I-765 to USCIS Include ID, I-20, transcript, photo, and payment.
- Pay OPT filing fees — easily handled through Dogpay for cross-border students.
- Receive receipt (Form I-797) and wait for approval.
- Get your EAD card and start working legally.
4. Common Difficulties
- Delays in international fee payments.
- Complicated multi-platform billing for translation, courier, and consulting.
- Hidden FX markups and unclear transaction tracking.
- Inability to generate formal receipts for visa records.
5. How Dogpay Makes the OPT Process Easier
Dogpay bridges the gap between international students and U.S. systems, allowing seamless global transactions with full transparency.
💳 Key Dogpay Benefits:
- Pay USCIS fees globally – Convert local currency to USD instantly and pay directly.
- Pay legal or consulting fees easily – Dogpay supports one-click transfers to law firms or agents.
- Centralized expense tracking – Manage multiple payments (SEVIS, I-765, mailing) in one place.
- Automated receipts – Every transaction includes timestamped proof and downloadable records.
- Compliance & safety – Licensed under major financial jurisdictions, ensuring funds move securely.
- Multi-user access – Parents abroad can also fund the student’s Dogpay wallet for faster payments.
6. Final Thoughts
OPT is not just about career opportunity—it’s about readiness.
And with Dogpay, international students can handle every financial step confidently:
from filing fees to consulting costs, all with clarity, speed, and peace of mind.
✅ In short:
Dogpay makes OPT payments as smooth as your first job offer.
