Q: I'm currently on post completion OPT (AS degree) but it expires in February. I have a job offer.What are my options?
I have an employer who is willing to sponsor my visa but I am not sure if I am eligible for any type of status or visa change since I have AS degree and not Bachelors . What are my options at this point to prolong my stay? Thank you
A:
I think your best option is to consult with an immigration lawyer. Your visa options are pretty limited, and too bad the OPT EAD is about to expire!
Some rather random options:
* Permanent residence: The employer may be willing to go through the permanent residence process ... which will take about 1.5 years to 2 years, and perhaps you can work remotely in the meantime.
* Work visa: If the employer is foreign-owned, and you are of the same nationality as the owners, and there is an E-1 or E-2 treaty, you might qualify for an E-1 or E-2 visa. Of course this is a long-shot!
* Is your AS degree in a STEM science field? I don't know if this might allow for an OPT extension, at the Associate's degree level, but worth checking out with your advisor at school.
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