Cap-Gap Extension
This extension applies to F-1 students with a pending or approved change of status H-1B petition with an October 1 start date.
What does Cap-Gap Allow Me to Do?
- If you are on Post-Completion or STEM OPT and your employer filed the H-1B petition in a timely manner, you will automatically qualify for a Cap-Gap extension, which permits you to continue working between the end of your OPT authorized period and the beginning of the H-1B period on October 1.
- If you are not approved for OPT (or are in your 60- day grace period after OPT has ended) when the H-1B petition is timely filed, you are eligible for an extension of F-1 status but may not work during the Cap-Gap period.
Do I Need a New I-20?
This Cap-Gap extension is automatic, but a new I-20 is not given unless requested. You may request an updated I-20 by completing the Cap Gap form in iStart and providing a copy of the petitioning employer’s Form I-797, Notice of Action, indicating that the petition was filed and accepted.
Note: The updated I-20 is not required for a student to continue working; it merely serves as proof of the extension of OPT employment authorization.
What Happens if the H-1B Petition Is Not Approved?
The Cap-Gap extension will terminate, and you will enter a 60-day grace period if USCIS rejects, denies, or revokes the H-1B petition or if the employer withdraws the petition.
Where Can I Find More Information About the Cap-Gap Extension?
We recommend visiting the USCIS webpage, which provides extensive information and answers to common questions about the Cap-Gap extension and traveling abroad during this period.
What does Cap-Gap Allow Me to Do?
- If you are on Post-Completion or STEM OPT and your employer filed the H-1B petition in a timely manner, you will automatically qualify for a Cap-Gap extension, which permits you to continue working between the end of your OPT authorized period and the beginning of the H-1B period on October 1.
- If you are not approved for OPT (or are in your 60- day grace period after OPT has ended) when the H-1B petition is timely filed, you are eligible for an extension of F-1 status but may not work during the Cap-Gap period.
Do I Need a New I-20?
This Cap-Gap extension is automatic, but a new I-20 is not given unless requested. You may request an updated I-20 by completing the Cap Gap form in iStart and providing a copy of the petitioning employer’s Form I-797, Notice of Action, indicating that the petition was filed and accepted.
Note: The updated I-20 is not required for a student to continue working; it merely serves as proof of the extension of OPT employment authorization.
What Happens if the H-1B Petition Is Not Approved?
The Cap-Gap extension will terminate, and you will enter a 60-day grace period if USCIS rejects, denies, or revokes the H-1B petition or if the employer withdraws the petition.
Where Can I Find More Information About the Cap-Gap Extension?
We recommend visiting the USCIS webpage, which provides extensive information and answers to common questions about the Cap-Gap extension and traveling abroad during this period.
