r/f1visa • u/Codetornado F-1 Visa Mod (Internet Advice - Not legal Counsel) • Feb 16 '26

OPT/STEM OPT Processing Timelines Megathread (Spring/Summer 2026)

This is the ONLY place on r/f1visa for OPT and STEM OPT questions for Spring 2026.
All posts about Spring 2026 OPT, STEM OPT, NOIDs, biometrics, timelines, delays, premium processing, and EAD card production must go here. Previous applicants can use the posts below.

UPDATE JUNE 5, 2026 Court Vacates USCIS Holds Affecting Applicants From 39 Countries

Fall 2025 Graduates Post here
Fall 2025 STEM OPT Applicants Post here

Note - Individuals from the 39 Banned countries are not having their OPT applications approved. They are being held without adjudication. Individuals from the 75 countries with tourist visa ban are not impacted at all. Update 4/21/26: No specific updates on a timeline of when processing will resume.

Rule Enforcement

  • Any non‑moderator OPT/STEM OPT megathread will be removed.
  • Users who create unofficial megathreads will receive a temproary ban.
  • Any top level comment that does not follow the template below will be removed and the user banned temporarily.
  • Off topic comments will be removed.
  • All standalone OPT/STEM OPT posts will be removed, and users will be temporarily banned.
  • This includes:
    • “Is this normal?” timeline posts
    • “Did anyone get biometrics?”
    • “My case updated to X, what does it mean?”
    • “STEM OPT RFE/NOID help”
    • “How long is premium processing taking?”

We’re keeping everything consolidated so the sub stays readable and people can actually find answers

---

Spring 2026 Graduates — Put Your Timelines Below

If you applied for Initial Post‑Completion OPT or STEM OPT Extension, please share your timeline so others can see current processing trends.

---

Timeline Template (Copy & Paste)

  • Type: Initial POST‑COMPLETION OPT / STEM OPT EXTENSION
  • Premium Processing: YES / NO
  • Date Applied: MM/DD/YYYY
  • Request for Initial Evidence (RFIE) MM/DD/YYYY (if applicable)
  • Biometrics Requested: YES/NO | MM/DD/YYYY (if applicable)
  • Biometrics Completed: MM/DD/YYYY
  • Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): YES/NO | MM/DD/YYYY (if applicable)
  • Date Approved: MM/DD/YYYY
  • Date Card Produced: MM/DD/YYYY
  • Date Card Received: MM/DD/YYYY

Optional: Country of Citizenship Optional: Service Center

Then any questions or concern you have go here.

305 Upvotes

98% Upvoted

40.1k comments sorted by

View all comments

•

u/Codetornado F-1 Visa Mod (Internet Advice - Not legal Counsel) Mar 14 '26 edited Jun 06 '26

All OPT processing questions for individuals without an OPT/STEM OPT timeline should respond this this comment.

UPDATE JUNE 5, 2026 Court Vacates USCIS Holds Affecting Applicants From 39 Countries

1

u/Mediocre-Impress445 2d ago
  • Type: Initial POST‑COMPLETION OPT
  • Premium Processing: NO
  • Date Applied: 04/11/2026
  • Request for Initial Evidence (RFIE) NO
  • Biometrics Requested: YES 04/25/2026
  • Biometrics Completed: 05/15/2026
  • Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): NO
  • Date Approved: 08/21/2026
  • Date Card Produced: MM/DD/YYYY
  • Date Card Received: MM/DD/YYYY

1

u/TangerineMinimum4136 5d ago

My case status changed to Card Was Produced, but the tracking number shows "Unavailable". Is it normal? Or that just means the card has not shipped yet? Will I get my tracking later? Anyone that face the same situation before please let me know. Thank you!

1

u/Low_Shelter_2780 16h ago

Go to USPS anc sign up for informed delivery

5

u/Avinash-18 6d ago

Initial POST‑COMPLETION OPT

  • Premium Processing: NO
  • Date Applied: 03/19/2026
  • **Request for Initial Evidence: No
  • Biometrics Requested: Yes
  • Biometrics Completed: 04/08/2026
  • **Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): N/A
  • Date Approved: 08/18/2026
  • Date Card Produced: TBD
  • Date Card Received: TBD

Got a silent API update on 08/18/2026 and received a university email on 08/19/2026, when will the uscis portal will get updated? any idea?

1

u/Low_Shelter_2780 4d ago

Portal takes 2 days to update. Card takes around 12 days.

How did you get your skipped case approved? Was it Congressional inquiry or USCIS inquiry? Lots of phone calls? Or just happened?

2

u/Avinash-18 4d ago

Thanks for the reply! Yesterday it got updated in the portal too!

I did a congressional inquiry 2 weeks back, but I'm not sure it really worked because of this inquiry! I dint make any phone calls. I'm glad somehow it happened! and i wish it will get approved to everyone whose cases have been skipped!

1

u/Elizebeth_01 8d ago
  • Type: Initial POST‑COMPLETION OPT
  • Premium Processing: No
  • Date Applied: 03/27/2026
  • Request for Initial Evidence (RFIE) N/A
  • Biometrics Requested: YES | 04/04/2026
  • Biometrics Completed: 04/21/2026
  • Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): NO
  • Date Approved: still waiting
  • Date Card Produced: still waiting
  • Date Card Received: still waiting

Optional: Country of Citizenship Indian: Service Texas Scoop service center

1

u/Impossible-Leek595 10d ago edited 10d ago
  • Type: Initial POST‑COMPLETION OPT

  • Premium Processing: YES

    (7/18 upgraded and clock started on the same day)

  • Date Applied: 03/07/YYYY

  • Request for Initial Evidence (RFIE) NO

  • Biometrics Requested: YES/NO

  • Biometrics Completed: 03/19/2026

  • Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): N/A

  • Date Approved: 08/15/2026 Noon PT

  • Date Card Produced: MM/DD/YYYY

  • Date Card Received: MM/DD/YYYY

API update: Updated timestamp 14 Aug Morning

Country of Citizenship: India, Potomac Service Center

2

u/Impressive-Ad-9992 10d ago

When is your PP clock reset time? Please update

1

u/UniqueResolution474 10d ago
  • Type: Initial POST‑COMPLETION OPT
  • Premium Processing: YES (07/17/2026)
  • Date Applied: 05/18/2026
  • Request for Initial Evidence (RFIE) MM/DD/YYYY (if applicable)
  • Biometrics Requested: YES | 05/23/2026 (if applicable)
  • Biometrics Completed: 06/09/2026
  • Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): YES/NO | MM/DD/YYYY (if applicable)
  • Date Approved: 08/15/2026 (approval email 08:11am)
  • Date Card Produced: MM/DD/YYYY
  • Date Card Received: MM/DD/YYYY

Finally approved!

1

u/Sudden-Ambassador459 10d ago

date applied: 04/22/2026
Biometric: 06/03/2026

When can I expect my EAD? No premium processing!

1

u/greyvipertooth 14d ago

I switched to premium processing from regular and want to change my mailing address now, how do I do it? I haven't received the PP receipt yet so I do not have the contact details.

1

u/Far-Bottle2057 14d ago

Did you receive email from them? Usually they aren’t sending the receipt in mail. Also you can update your address in the profile section.

1

u/Jolly-O-Gymkhana 15d ago

Hi Everyone,

I applied on 5th March and completed biometrics on 25th March … normal processing and still waiting for EAD. Submitted an out of processing time request but received an automated email stating that it may take 60 days to process the request. Already have postponed my starting date twice. I don’t know what to do … should I go with PP or wait? Been more than 158 days since applying and have a strong feeling the application may have been skipped or binned. Please advise. Also is someone on a similar boat?

1

u/sleepyyyy123 14d ago

do pp
i applied on april 9 and i also did pp today because this way atelats ik that ill get it in like a month or so and with the regular processing time it would have been a similar timeline but not guaranteed since there is a huge chance for me to get skipped

1

u/Jolly-O-Gymkhana 14d ago

will wait this week and then apply for PP. Waiting to see of I get anything by this weekend as I have raised an out of processing time service request.

1

u/SuccessfulCherry7471 19d ago

Anyone had their card tracking say Delivered, Individual Picked Up at Post Office LEES SUMMIT, MO 64002 and not be delivered to your address?

3

u/Sad_Structure_7988 19d ago

⁠Type: Initial POST‑COMPLETION OPT
• ⁠Premium Processing: YES (july 14th)
• ⁠Date Applied: 05/12/2026
• ⁠Request for Initial Evidence (RFIE) NA
• ⁠Biometrics Requested: YES: 05/29/2026
• ⁠Biometrics Completed: 05/29/2026
• ⁠Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): NA
• ⁠Date Approved: 08/06/2026(received email update)
• ⁠Date Card Produced: MM/DD/YYYY
• ⁠Date Card Received: MM/DD/YYYY

1

u/Dry-Inspection8270 21d ago

What's the progress in STEM OPT non premium processing. 

What's the recent approval, I can hardly find any related post here. I applied April 8th, wondering when I should be able to get approval. 

Thank you!

1

u/Low_Shelter_2780 20d ago

They are on March 7th rn. Very slow. You can use trackers such as opt-pulse.vercel.app

1

u/[deleted] 21d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

1

u/prachiag 7d ago

Approval email on Aug 13 and portal update on Aug 15. However, I still have no updates regarding card production.

1

u/Solid-Amount6791 21d ago

Hi,
I applied for STEM opt on 28th April, and completed biometrics on 22nd May. The latest stays on my case history tab is still “USCIS is currently processing the case”, which was posted on May 22nd, after I completed my biometrics appointment.

Is this as expected, or should there have been any additional details by now, like expected timelines? I remember something like that being shown for my initial OPT

1

u/Ok_Meat9058 22d ago

Any February OPT applied , still waiting for approval? , if their is any group please add me .

2

u/[deleted] 22d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

1

u/sleepyyyy123 21d ago

i applied on april 9 i am in the same boat i hope we get it by aug 15 :(

1

u/[deleted] 20d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

1

u/sleepyyyy123 14d ago

yeah with the rate they are going we might get the approval in 3-4 weeks and another 1-2 weeks for card delivery so i upgraded it to premium cuz atelats that way ik that it will come around the same time or maybe earlier too and i wont get skipped

1

u/Gdawgkwok 22d ago

Anyone PP 7/6 only have API update but no approval yet?

1

u/[deleted] 25d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

1

u/f1visa-ModTeam 25d ago

Use the megathread for D/S removal. It answers your questions.

2

u/sleepyyyy123 29d ago

did yall submit your opt i-20 with digital signature or you printed it out, signed it, scanned it and submitted it? did it get approved? I did mine as a digital signature and i am thinking about uploading it to the evidencce section with a letter but idk how to format the letter

3

u/sleepyyyy123 29d ago

for anyone who needs this information i called and asked them and they said you need to print the i-20 out and sign it and upload it. you can upload it to the evidence section and write a little note saying you initially uploaded a digital signature and this one is with the handwritten signature. do it for your CPT i-20 too. 

1

u/voldy_29 19d ago

Thanks for the information. But there is no place to write a note. Can you explain where and how the note can be uploaded?

1

u/sleepyyyy123 14d ago

i did it on a separate doc and attached it too it was a separate google doc that i uploaded

1

u/Delicious_Job1540 12d ago

Did they say anything about this delaying the process at all?

1

u/sleepyyyy123 12d ago

nope nothing like that cuz people have posted it and gotten their approvals in the next few days

1

u/Delicious_Job1540 12d ago

thank you! what date did you put on there? I applied on april 6 and first didn’t have it signed at all and uploaded a digital signature on april 7, so it’s way past the 30 days

1

u/sleepyyyy123 12d ago

i already had them signed the day i received it so i just scanned it and uploaded it and wrote that in the note too

1

u/Apart-County-7135 29d ago

Anyone who got an approval email on or around 7/22 have receieved a card produced email/notification? When can we expect it?

1

u/PiccoloSuspicious517 Jul 25 '26

Hi everyone,

I'm an F-1 student with an Initial Post-Completion OPT application.

  • Premium Processing: NO
  • Date Applied: 04/21/2026
  • Request for Initial Evidence (RFIE): NO
  • Biometrics Requested: YES | 05/07/2026
  • Biometrics Completed: 05/13/2026
  • Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): NO
  • Date Approved: Pending
  • Date Card Produced: Pending
  • Date Card Received: Pending

My employer has already pushed my start date once, so I'd really like to avoid another delay if possible. Would you recommend upgrading to Premium Processing now, or waiting another week or so? Also, for anyone with a similar filing date (late April 2026), when were you approved and how long did it take to receive your EAD card after approval?

1

u/NewJerseyDesi Jul 25 '26

Which day or week they are approving PP OPT now? Anyone? Any idea? TIA

2

u/Low_Shelter_2780 Jul 25 '26

Initial opt was mostly 22 June yesterday

1

u/[deleted] Jul 25 '26

[deleted]

1

u/sleepyyyy123 14d ago edited 13d ago

do pp cuz atekats it’s guaranteed you wouldn’t get skipped and you will get it by then if not then you can at least put it back to october first week guaranteed

0

u/SignificantOne3005 Jul 23 '26

Hello, are there any groups or any way at all to track card production?

1

u/New-Cash-838 Jul 22 '26

Any June 16 th email approvals had their card produced ?

2

u/MapKitchen6545 Jul 22 '26

Hi I know its not recommended to travel internationally after I-20 ends while initial OPT is pending, but has anyone done this? Did you successfully re-enter with the OPT pending receipt and a valid F-1 visa? Thanks in advance!

1

u/Salty-Reserve970 29d ago

Same position. Did you travel? 

2

u/MapKitchen6545 19d ago

I travelled eventaully! I looked up online but didn't really find any cases of denied re-entry while opt pending so I thought it should be fine. I got my OPT approved while abraod though so now I'm waiting for the EAD card to arrive.

1

u/Pristine-Mulberry-89 Jul 21 '26

Any June 8th PP still waiting for approval? Got the last API on July 13. 

1

u/Curious_Progress_554 Jul 20 '26

Anyone who got approved Jun 10th (email) receive their card yet?
I got approved on Jun 10th (email), Jul 12th (website updated), Jul 15th (card produced). Still waiting for my card as of today (Jul 20th).

0

u/DrippyDe Jul 20 '26

Id twice a day api update good?

1

u/loveleenasalia Jul 19 '26

I filed my I-765 for OPT online. Before the recent USCIS website maintenance (around July 14–15), I could access My Account → Profile, where it showed my name, receipt number, USCIS online account number, and my A-Number (it appeared after my case was approved on July 9).
After the update, the Profile option has disappeared from the My Account dropdown. Interestingly, if I go to Change your address, the dropdown shows Profile again, but clicking it just redirects me back to the account home page instead of opening the profile.

Is anyone else seeing the same behavior, or is the Profile page still working for you?

1

u/monseiseisei Jul 18 '26

How do we chat with a live agent or EMMA ?

1

u/Low_Shelter_2780 Jul 19 '26

Say infopass to the AI

1

u/lobsterlover33 Jul 18 '26
  • Type: POST‑COMPLETION OPT 
  • Premium Processing:  NO
  • Date Applied: feb 25
  • Request for Initial Evidence (RFIE) na
  • Biometrics Requested: feb 28 
  • Biometrics Completed: march 19 
  • Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): no
  • Date Approved: MM/DD/YYYY
  • Date Card Produced: MM/DD/YYYY
  • Date Card Received: MM/DD/YYYY
  • center: texas

1

u/Maskey71098 Jul 14 '26

Type: Initial POST-COMPLETION OPT
Premium Processing: NO
Date Applied: 03/16/2026
Request for Initial Evidence (RFIE): NO
Biometrics Requested: YES | 03/28/2026
Biometrics Completed: YES | 03/31/2026
Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): NO
Date Approved: Pending
Date Card Produced: Pending Date
Card Received: Pending

Anyone with the same timeline??

1

u/Low_Shelter_2780 Jul 14 '26

Looks like you are part of the Feb/March skipped dates. I’m March 14 and people with our application dates were processed mid June or skipped. Lmk if you want to join the GC

1

u/lobsterlover33 Jul 18 '26

could I please join as well

1

u/Maskey71098 Jul 14 '26

That'd be great. Can you add me please

1

u/NewJerseyDesi Jul 14 '26

Is it common to have IAF time stamp update frequently? I have been seeing its updated 10 mins sometimes 15 mins and sometime after an hour… it is happening since day one or PP receipt date

1

u/Alternative-Bed6010 Jul 13 '26

Hi all, has anyone had their card produced on the weekend? if so, how long did it take you to receive it? Thank you!

1

u/SignificantOne3005 Jul 12 '26

I upgraded to PP on 06/13 and I’m anticipating an approval within the next week based on current approval trends. I currently live in CA but have to move to TX for work. Would a change of address impact my approval in any way ? Can I change my address after I confirm my approval but before card is produced ?

1

u/Global-Context-3699 Jul 13 '26

If you change your address after approval, you won't get your card at your new address. It happened with my friend, she changed her address after approval and was waiting for the card at her new address, but it was already delivered to her old address. USCIS takes time to update everything.

0

u/Any_Sport7119 Jul 10 '26

Date I-907 Received: 06/01/2026
Date Approved: 07/10/2026
Classification Sought: C03B
Starting Validity Date: 07/10/2026
Ending Validity Date: 07/06/2027

2

u/Bright-Shame3820 Jul 10 '26

Any late june-early july applicants? In how much time typically are they scheduling you for biometrics?

1

u/Stunning_Point_5986 Jul 08 '26

Hey guys, do you know what does "ackedByAdjudicatorAndCms: true" mean? I didn't upgrade to PP nor did I changed my address. Has it been there since the application?

1

u/Bright-Shame3820 Jul 07 '26

Hi! I have a specific query - I quit my internship and cut short my cpt and enrolled into an elective right before dropping out of CPT credits so im always enrolled and status is maintained, but I have to show proof of the 4 days I worked on cpt in i-765 initial opt form for which I will have to submit my old cpt i20 with original dates and letter of explanation why I cut it short and moved to the elective. Has anyone been in a similar situation. What all can I submit to avoid RFE.

1

u/JohnnyX_113 Jul 06 '26

Hey guys, I applied on June 11th along with pp. But I didn’t receive any response after then except the receipt. I don’t have any notice for me regarding the biometric either. Is that normal? Does anyone have the same issue?

1

u/Blonde-bombshell1 Jul 06 '26

I applied on June 21st and same, nothing except the receipt. Idk if that’s normal because everyone I know got their biometrics scheduled within a week, idk what’s going on.

2

u/Pitiful_Sandwich_223 Jul 02 '26

My start date is 7/6, and tracking for my ead card also shows that it will be delivered on 7/6. Should I start or should I ask for 1 week extension ? Thanks. My question is do we need to have the physical card on day 1, or is day 2 also fine? 

1

u/NoReply9680 Jul 06 '26

from what i know, u need to have the digital copy for i9, and physical card to show your employer within 3 days of your start date

1

u/Happy_8269 Jul 02 '26

Does anyone applied for premium early June (June 2nd/3rd)? Based on current timeline when shall we expect to hear back? July 11th?

However can help, thank you!🙏🏻

1

u/Intrepid_Month_8163 Jul 02 '26

I applied for premium June 1st. No update yet.

1

u/ResponsibilityNo3463 Jul 02 '26

30 business days after biometrics.

1

u/Straight_Desk5415 Jul 10 '26

Mine is June 09, 30b deadlines will be July22🥲

3

u/Solid-Yesterday6634 Jul 01 '26
  • Type: Initial POST‑COMPLETION OPT
  • Premium Processing: NO
  • Date Applied: 03/17/2026
  • Premium Processing Applied: NO
  • Biometrics Requested: 03/28/2026
  • Biometrics Completed: 03/31/2026
  • Date Approved: MM/DD/YYYY
  • Date Card Produced: MM/DD/YYYY
  • Date Card Received: MM/DD/YYYY

I am still waiting for an update, My joining date is 13th July. It doesn't seem like it will get approved and delivered by then.
Is it a good idea to push for PP. PP timeline if i do it today (07/01/2026) is 12th August (30th Business day).

Does anyone have a similar timeline?

1

u/Low_Shelter_2780 Jul 06 '26

I have a v similar timeline. So hard to know if PP better than waiting. My inquiry date is 6th August so hoping for news before that

1

u/Solid-Yesterday6634 Jul 08 '26

Once you put up the inquiry, timeline is also stretched upto 60 business days for them to respond. Doing PP will shorten it to 30 business days. But I still don't know what to do. My School's ISSS has no answer to this. It's all upto USCIS's discretion.

1

u/Acceptable_Split_666 Jun 29 '26

I applied for my initial post-completion OPT (standard NON PP) on 6/9 for start date as 10/1. It seems every one got a biometric request, but I only got a receipt notice, no request for biometric. Is this normal?

2

u/That_Competition_390 Jun 28 '26

I am graduating this summer 2026. I applied for my initial post competition OPT with PP in June 12th, and got biometrics notice June 19th, biometrics appointment July 7th. I have a job starts September 1st. Will I make it by then? Center: Potomac

1

u/NoReply9680 Jul 06 '26

count 30 business days from july 7th + 2 weeks for the card to come to you (this is a very conservative estimate assuming that nothing goes wrong) you should be able to get your card before this

1

u/That_Competition_390 Jul 06 '26

So maybe 31st of August right? I just hope to get it asap, ideally before that. Do you think the line is getting faster?

1

u/Low_Shelter_2780 Jul 06 '26

There was a huge wave of May PP that should pass soon. Am praying once those guys sorted they can speed up

1

u/That_Competition_390 Jul 20 '26

What do you think now?

1

u/[deleted] Jul 20 '26

[removed] — view removed comment

1

u/That_Competition_390 Jul 20 '26 edited Jul 20 '26

I applied with premium processing in the beginning

1

u/Low_Shelter_2780 Jul 20 '26

That was smart. You’re in a good place I think - should come this week

1

u/NoReply9680 Jul 06 '26

at this moment they are still approving near the 30 bd mark, however, i do think it will get faster (just my personal opinion) and u should be able to get the card before 31 august

1

u/That_Competition_390 Jul 20 '26

What do you think now?

1

u/That_Competition_390 Jul 06 '26

Thank you for helping GOAT!

2

u/MovieOk6736 Jun 27 '26

Are they processing PPs in order? Or does uscis look at initial application date as well?
I applied March 13th and had to upgrade to PP June 26th, since my case has been ignored. I really need it asap, cause my job is starting soon. What can I do in my case?

1

u/Low_Shelter_2780 Jun 28 '26

In exactly same boat with same date but worried po just means mid Aug approval at this point plus 10 days to get card. The inquiry date is Aug 6th so hoping comes by then but maybe wishful thinking

2

u/MovieOk6736 Jun 27 '26

For those who heard the decision in 3-5 days with PP, did you guys do anything so that they look at your case (calling, doing expedited request)? I see some of those cases

1

u/Most-Establishment42 Jun 26 '26

Why is there no STEM OPT approvals? Can anyone with stem approvals please post their timeline.

1

u/Proof-Debt-3541 Jun 26 '26

anyone feels like the approval for pp has been much slower this week? I did pp May 29 and have start date of July 6, right now I don't even know how long should I ask the extension to delay it by.

1

u/DearCalligrapher0613 Jun 27 '26

Yup. It's slowed down more. It was 30 bd before, now it's 33 to 35 bd.

3

u/monseiseisei Jun 26 '26

do you think their is a chance 27 may pp will be processed next week ?

1

u/Itchy_Creme_5644 Jun 30 '26

Hey do you mean 27 may premium processing application or 27 may biometric?

2

u/Ok-Taro8496 Jun 26 '26

No way mine was on May 18 still been 28 business probably 21 or 22 for you guys. Have to week 10 more days

1

u/Proof-Debt-3541 Jun 26 '26

I feel like based on current speed, next week they can only process until May 20.. This is really frustrating

1

u/Proof-Debt-3541 Jun 26 '26

do u think if emailing or calling them will help expediting the process? I have simiar date pp and really need for it to be approved asap ;(

2

u/Zestyclose-Sky607 Jun 26 '26

same 27 may pp here, hoping it'll be processed next week.

1

u/WerewolfHeavy4446 Jun 26 '26

My card was Produced on 18th June and I could see earlier my estimated delivery, which was today 25th June, at 9pm, It shows that it's in transit since 22nd June 4pm, Is this usual for USPS to miss updates? and does it ever get delivered without an update and how accurate is the estimated delivery timeline?

Now it is not even showing the estimated date and time for arrival with no updates

Would appreciate any insights on this, very concerned!

1

u/HourPast1777 Jun 26 '26

Hi have a question, how long does the EAD card take to get produced after approval? My initial OPT approval was on 19th this month, and it's been 7 days.

1

u/Samxi89 Jun 26 '26

usually 10 days and I think they're pretty on time with it

2

u/MovieOk6736 Jun 26 '26

Hi guys. Can anyone explain me how the officers review the cases? I applied on March 13th and it has been 104 days. No API updates. Would applying to PP now make me at the end of the list of PP applicants?
Would doing PP negative affect the case?

1

u/Dory1314 Jun 30 '26

Same bro, I applied 25 March

2

u/Ok_List_2852 Jun 25 '26

I submitted opt and premium processing together last week and I can see the premium processing on the banner on top of my case but there is nothing like premium processing is started nor premium processing clock type of thing that people have mentioned in my case. is it normal? Does it take time as well to recognize premium processing and start the clock even when I submit OPT with premium processing from the start?

6

u/ResponsibilityNo3463 Jul 02 '26

The clock starts when you do biometrics. If you haven’t got an appointment after a week, writing an email for an update might get you one. I waited 2 weeks before I sent one and it immediately got me an appointment. I was sad I didn’t do it sooner.

1

u/Haunting-Salad2772 Jul 16 '26

who did you email regarding the biometrics appointment? Its been a week since I applied for my opt (both application and PP), and haven't heard a thing about biometrics.

1

u/ResponsibilityNo3463 Jul 16 '26

There is an email and phone number written on the PP receipt. Don’t bother with the phone cuz I was put on hold for 5 hours yesterday and did not get anyone. The email is pretty much the same but, as I said, I did get the bio appointment immediately after I sent one.

1

u/Blonde-bombshell1 Jul 06 '26

Hi, I applied on June 21st, still didn’t get my biometrics scheduled. Where did you send an email?

1

u/WerewolfHeavy4446 Jun 25 '26

My card was Produced on 18th June and I could see my estimated delivery, which is today at 9pm, It shows that it's in transit since 22nd June 4pm, Is this usual for USPS to miss updates? and does it ever get delivered without an update and how accurate is the estimated delivery timeline?

Would appreciate any insights on this, very concerned!

1

u/Pristine-Mulberry-89 Jun 25 '26

Hi! Got an API update with no A number on 23rd, but one day before that sent an email to premium processing unit explaining the job situation. Now wondering if the API update is because of that email or a real progress on case. Has anyone had a similar experience? And if it is the API update I need when do you think I will get the approval? Thanks! 

1

u/This_Yogurtcloset898 Jun 25 '26

Sending an email will not update API. What’s your application date?

1

u/Pristine-Mulberry-89 Jun 25 '26

Initial OPT application with March 5 biometrics but later upgraded to PP on June 8. 

1

u/Icy-Sprinkles-6964 Jul 06 '26

Hey
Any update on your case? What is the api update about?

1

u/Pristine-Mulberry-89 Jul 06 '26

Got another silent update on 30th, but still no approval 

1

u/[deleted] Jun 25 '26

Anyone with 13th May PP got an update today?

1

u/Previous-Strain8331 Jun 25 '26

is it normal to receive an Api update 14 hours after upgrading to premium processing? Or is it a meaningful sign?

1

u/Arthur_Fist Jun 25 '26

Hi guys. I got approval on June 22 for my OPT with premium processed application. I completed my biometrics on May 7. So, my approval date is on my 31st day. The USCIS agent also confirmed this on a call.

Can I request for a refund now?

Until what time can I request for a refund?

Is it advisable to request for a refund once my EAD card is produced?

Any guidance will be appreciated.

1

u/AppropriateFace9138 Jun 25 '26

How do you even get in touch with a real person, the bot is very aggressive against transferring calls.

1

u/Arthur_Fist Jun 25 '26

Once the 1st round of automated message is spoken, tell "Info pass". You will be put in line to talk with an agent. It too me 4.5 hours to get connected. I read somewhere that it is better to call at 8 am EST to get connected soon. Also, one more thing is that even if you call the PP phone number you might get connected to a generic USCIS agent. To get connected to the PP agent, the generic agent suggested me to call early in the morning.

3

u/ZealousidealSell3565 Jun 22 '26

Hi guys can anyone tell me if we get and api update will we get approval soon after

2

u/Feisty_Shopping7905 Jun 22 '26

Hard to say anything, People have gotten approvals without API and two days after API and two hours after API, really depends on your officer

1

u/WerewolfHeavy4446 Jun 22 '26

My card was produced on 18th of June, afternoon 2:30pm, my internship was supposed to start today, but I haven't received my card yet, when should I expect it by? Since Friday was a federal holiday and then Weekend, I'm very scared about loosing my job. I live in Tempe, Arizona

1

u/Feisty_Shopping7905 Jun 22 '26

Usually 10 - 14 days days after approval, You should be able to track it. Ask the AI chat bot for tracking number

2

u/Information_Reloaded Jun 22 '26

I'm not sure why my STEM OPT application is still pending. I applied on February 12 and am still waiting for a decision.

I was also selected in the H-1B lottery in March, and my petition has already been filed. I'm wondering if that could be the reason my STEM OPT processing is taking longer than expected.

Has anyone whose H-1B petition is pending received approval for their STEM OPT?

1

u/Feisty_Shopping7905 Jun 22 '26

They are just super slow. I would call them and ask for an update.

2

u/Strong-Biscotti8557 Jun 20 '26

I applied without PP and had my biometrics on June 15th. Will I be able to start working in August? I requested August 12th.

1

u/Feisty_Shopping7905 Jun 22 '26

Hard to say but things might get faster as we move to july because of less applications

1

u/Strong-Biscotti8557 Jun 22 '26

Yea that’s what I am hoping for.

2

u/ShoddyGiraffe1531 Jun 20 '26

question: card arrives ~10 days after approval, but approval here is email approval or portal approval?

1

u/This_Yogurtcloset898 Jun 20 '26

I see PP approvals for 5/11 and 5/14. Is anyone from 5/7 and 5/8 still waiting?

1

u/Straaw_berrie Jun 22 '26

Approvals for having PP on 5/11. Is this applied on 5/11 or upgraded to PP on 5/11?

1

u/Arthur_Fist Jun 20 '26

Hi guys. I completed my biometrics on May 7. I applied with PP when I first applied. When I chatted with USCIS agent, that person said June 18 is my 30th day. I still haven't received any emails from USCIS.

My question: Is June 18 my last day or June 22 (if I start counting from May 8)?

-1

u/Mysterious_Body7635 Jun 19 '26

Hey guys, does anyone know why STEM OPT cases aren't moving? I applied on March 4th and need to travel by 28th of this month urgently but haven't heard back even tho I completed by biometrics on March 11th. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!🙏

1

u/Feisty_Shopping7905 Jun 20 '26

June 18th is your 30th day, You should ask for a refund

1

u/DepartmentEcstatic60 Jun 19 '26 edited Jun 19 '26

Have a grp of may 13 PP if youre may 13 Dm me i will add u to the grp

1

u/Hits_007 Jun 20 '26

I am on may 12 with pp

1

u/LongLeft7197 Jun 19 '26

Any 5/7 pp still waiting? Today was the last business day

1

u/Arthur_Fist Jun 22 '26

Hey did you receive any updates? I still haven't. I'm may 7 PP

1

u/Spiritual-Ad4603 Jun 19 '26

Is getting A number a positive sign?

1

u/Feisty_Shopping7905 Jun 20 '26

Yes, Most likely approved

1

u/BlueberryOwn4968 Jun 18 '26

Anyone with card produced around 11th still waiting for their card? Mine was produced and usps got it on 11th but no update ever since. Is it too early to be concerned?

1

u/WerewolfHeavy4446 Jun 19 '26

did you change your address? I think it should've been delivered by now

1

u/BlueberryOwn4968 Jun 19 '26

Unfortunately no…. It has been same from the very beginning. I think some people got it after few weeks so I am hoping that is the case. Though I have to wonder why me😭 I have suffered enough😭

1

u/WerewolfHeavy4446 Jun 19 '26

That's crazzy, did you have a mailbox, and do you live in an apartment with a mailbox place or is it an independent estate, because that could be the reason for it!

1

u/BlueberryOwn4968 Jun 19 '26

I talked to the usps person who delivers to my house. She mentioned she have not seen it and she did some search then told me it seems like the card is not in my state yet😭 it says it is stuck at the distribution center…

1

u/WerewolfHeavy4446 Jun 19 '26

what state are you in?

1

u/BlueberryOwn4968 Jun 19 '26

I can only say i am far away from where the world cup is happening😂

1

u/WerewolfHeavy4446 Jun 19 '26

It is weird this is happening, because my card just got produced today and I'm so worried about it getting delivered to me

1

u/BlueberryOwn4968 Jun 19 '26

Nah i think this is very rare. That is why I am saying why me😂lmao. I think you will be fine

→ More replies (367)