Published: June 11, 2018

Are you on OPT and working for a staffing or temporary agency and are eligible for the 24-month STEM extension?

Please consider the following guidance on the Department of Homeland Security Study in the States website pertaining to the employer training obligations for staffing or temporary agencies before applying for your STEM extension.

“If a student uses a temporary or staffing agency to place them in a training opportunity, the agency cannot complete and sign the Form I-983, Training Plan for STEM OPT Students. Only the E-verified employer that provides the actual training relevant to the student’s qualifying STEM degree is authorized to sign and complete the Form I-983."

It is important that you read the information provided on the USCIS website, and if applicable, discuss it with an immigration attorney, as this may impact your eligibility for a STEM extension.