Maintaining F-1 Status

Individuals with a pending or approved OPT application continue to hold F-1 immigration status.  The following steps must be taken to ensure proper maintenance of F-1 status while on OPT:

1. Continue to update your ‘Current’ address and phone number in Wolverine Access within 10 days of any change
2. Submit a copy of your EAD on our M-Passport portal
3. Continue to maintain U.S. health insurance
4. Ensure continued access to U-M e-mail account and continue to regularly check e-mail sent to your U-M account.
5. Avoid accruing more than 90 days of unemployment during entire period of authorized post-completion OPT
6. Report employment and any changes to the International Center via the M-Passport portal
7. Document OPT employment
8. Comply with U.S. income tax requirements and obtain social security number, if needed

Considerations regarding travel on OPT and ending OPT early will be covered in this module.