I’d like to know the requirements for OPT holders working remotely due to COVID-19.
Due to COVID-19, my company notified me that I could work from home. However, I understand OPT requires working in person at the workplace, so I’m worried remote work might violate OPT immigration regulations. I’d like to know if remote work is allowed, and if so, what requirements apply.
First, you must have started at the job within 90 days of OPT approval, and the position must be related to your major and be one that can genuinely be performed without coming into the office. For reference, the usual requirement of working at least 20 hours per week has also been relaxed, so working fewer than 20 hours is currently allowed as well.