Is STEM OPT Extension a Visa Sponsorship?

The STEM OPT extension is not considered visa sponsorship; rather, it is an extension of your Optional Practical Training (OPT) status for F-1 students with degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. This extension allows eligible international students to work in the U.S. for an additional 24 months (beyond the initial 12-month OPT period) without the employer needing to sponsor a separate visa like the H-1B.

During the STEM OPT period, you are still on an F-1 student visa, not an employment visa. However, to qualify, the employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, a U.S. government program that verifies employment eligibility. While the employer doesn’t ""sponsor"" a new visa, they must provide mentorship and training as part of the STEM OPT program’s requirements.

This is different from H-1B or other work visas where the employer acts as a direct visa sponsor, filing a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the employee to receive a new visa status.