Premium Processing Service for OPT EADs Expanded
USCIS recently announced plans to expand premium processing services for F-1 students applying for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) under STEM OPT extensions and Optional Practical Training (OPT). This change aims to make the adjudication process for F-1 students applying for STEM OPT and EADs more predictable and timelier.
Premium Processing Eligibility: First Phase
The USCIS started accepting premium upgrade requests beginning March 6, 2023. Initially, only F-1 students with pending I-765 applications for EADs are eligible for premium processing. Students who have submitted form I-765 applications in the following categories are eligible for premium processing:
- (c)(3)(A) – Pre-Completion OPT
- (c)(3)(B) – Post-Completion OPT
- (c)(3)(C) – 24-Month Extension of OPT for STEM Students
Premium Processing Eligibility: Second Phase
Beginning April 3, 2023, applicants in the above categories will also be able to apply for premium processing simultaneously with the initial filing of form I-765. However, any concurrent premium processing requests filed before April 3, 2023, will be rejected.
Requesting Premium Processing: Procedure
To file a premium upgrade for a currently pending OPT EAD application, an applicant must submit a form I-907 request for premium processing online or by mail, accompanied by the required fee of $1,500. Applicants must first create an online account with USCIS (free of charge) to submit the application online. Through their online account, applicants can pay the required fee, submit the form, and track their case. They can also respond to requests for evidence via their online account. USCIS is mandated to adjudicate such premium requests within 30 days.
For applications filed on or after April 3, 2023, applicants wishing to file a premium request concurrently with form I-765 must follow the same process and file both form I-765 and form I-907 together, either online or by mail.
Conclusion
This new development will undoubtedly benefit international students who need their OPT status as soon as possible to begin their professional careers. The premium processing service will help to shorten the wait time for OPT application decisions, providing much-needed certainty for international students eager to begin their careers in the United States.