During OPT, you can work for multiple employers, but you must report your employment to your school through the SEVP Portal.
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During OPT, you are allowed to work for multiple employers. If getting a full-time job is challenging, you can meet the OPT requirement of working at least 20 hours per week by working for multiple employers. Additionally, working for multiple employers may increase your chances of obtaining H-1B sponsorship.
- In general, international students can take on one full-time job (20-40 hours per week) and a part-time job (under 20 hours per week), or engage in multiple part-time jobs.
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Be sure to report and update your employment condition to your school through the SEVP Portal.
What Happens If You Do not Report OPT Employment on Time?
The information in the SEVP Portal is linked to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). If you fail to update your employment status promptly, you could be detained for additional questioning upon reentry to the U.S. In such cases, CBP may contact your school or the employer listed in the SEVP Portal to verify your information. If they find discrepancies, your entry might be denied.
It is the F-1 student’s responsibility to report employment updates during OPT. Failure to do so may not only impact your current status but could also affect your future visa applications.
If you overlook reporting by mistake, it is important to correct the information as soon as possible.