H1B Cap-Gap Extension
A cap-gap extension is a regulatory provision which extends an eligible F-1 student's status to bridge the gap between the end of F-1 status and start of H-1B status, thereby allowing the student to remain in the U.S. during the "gap”. The cap-gap extension is available to students who, as of April 1st, were either on approved OPT or in their 60-day grace period and have a pending or approved change-of-status October 1st H-1B petition with USCIS that was filed in a timely manner. Only your employer can provide accurate, official updates regarding your H1-B application.
Request for Cap-Gap Extension I-20
If your H-1B petition has been filed by your employer and receipted by USCIS, you are eligible for an automatic cap-gap extension I-20 through September 30th. To request this cap-gap extension I-20 submit New I-20 Request Form.Your international advisor will then issue you a new I-20. Processing time for a new I-20 is 2-4 business days.
Travel during Cap-Gap Extension period
A valid EAD card is required to re-enter during the cap-gap extension period along with a valid passport, F-1 visa, signed I-20, and employer letter. Students with EAD cards that have expired are not eligible to re-enter the U.S. during the cap-gap extension period. If you must travel during the extension period, be prepared to apply for your H-1B visa outside the US and adjust your return travel plans accordingly.
Please note, traveling outside the U.S. may interfere with the processing of your H-1B petition. The Office of International Affairs advises students to consult with their employers and attorneys regarding all travel plans before departing the U.S.
