...
Cost and Processing Time: There is no cost to the employer. The processing and approval time for CPT is usually within 5-10 working days.
2. OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING:
For graduates in F-1 student status, Optional Practical Training allows up to twelve months of employment after graduation (for those holding Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (“STEM”) degrees, may get 24 additional months). The student must obtain permission from the university, and a work authorization card from USCIS. The university can provide additional information.
...
Employer Obligations: Treat employees on practical training just like other U.S. employees in terms of pay, discipline, termination, etc. A brief jointly-developed training plan is required for STEM extensions.
3. H-1B VISAS:
This is an extremely popular work visa. It is available to foreign nationals who (a) have at least a U.S. Bachelor’s Degree or foreign equivalent and (b) will be working in a job that requires at least a Bachelor’s Degree. Allows employment for 6 years, or longer. The employer must submit an application to USCIS. Approvals can take as little as fifteen (15) business days.
Employer Obligations:
There is no need to advertise the position, and no need to determine if U.S. workers are available to fill the position.
All Employers must post a notice for ten days at the worksite stating that the employer is hiring an H-1B worker, providing information about the job. This is NOT an advertisement. It is just a notice.
Employers must pay the same wage and benefits provided to U.S. workers in similar jobs. May need to pay return transportation in some circumstances.
Timing: Normal processing times will take several months. However, USCIS has special “premium processing” which guarantees processing in 15 business days, but requires an extra $2,500 filing fee.
...