What happens if I exceed 90 days of unemployment on OPT?
OPT/STEM OPT
January 01, 2026
596 views
Answer
If you exceed 90 days of unemployment:
- Your F-1 status is terminated
- You must leave the U.S. immediately
- You may be barred from re-entry
- Future visa applications will be negatively affected
Prevention:
- Start job search early
- Consider volunteer work (counts as employment)
- Track unemployment days carefully
- Have backup plans
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