Archive · 19 Nov 2025
STEM OPT Workers Face Uncertain Future Amidst H-1B Hurdles and Job Market Constraints
A software engineer on a temporary work visa in the US is worried about finding a job and staying in the country after their current visa expires.
They're having trouble finding new jobs because many companies don't want to hire people on temporary visas.
They're also worried about changes to the visa rules that could make it harder for them to stay.
They're asking for advice from others in similar situations.
A software engineer nearing the end of their STEM OPT is uncertain about their future in the US
Tech employers are hesitant to hire due to risk of uncertainty with fewer H-1B attempts left
Mid-size and small companies are rejecting applicants with OPT status, making job transitions difficult
Alternate pathways like Canada's L1 route or Day-1 CPT options are also challenging
Fear of changes to STEM OPT rules and immigration policy adds to the uncertainty
- Who
- A software engineer on STEM OPT nearing their final year
- What
- Facing uncertainty about their future in the US
- When
- Currently, with close to one year of STEM OPT left
- Where
- In the United States
- Why
- Due to visa hurdles and tightening hiring trends
Those Favorably Disposed Towards STEM OPT Workers
Those Cautious About STEM OPT Workers
Hiring Practices
Those Favorably Disposed Towards STEM OPT Workers
Tech employers should be more open to hiring STEM OPT workers despite risks
Those Cautious About STEM OPT Workers
Tech employers should prioritize candidates with more H-1B attempts left to mitigate risks
Alternate Pathways
Those Favorably Disposed Towards STEM OPT Workers
Countries like Canada should maintain pathways for STEM OPT workers
Those Cautious About STEM OPT Workers
Countries may need to tighten pathways due to their own immigration policies and job market demands
- Visa Type
- STEM OPT
- Remaining Time
- Close to one year
- Current Role
- Low-paying software engineering job
- H-1B Attempts Left
- Less than 2
- Potential Immigration Policy Change
- Higher paying senior roles may get more preference in upcoming lottery