In what will be a major relief to F-1 graduates (mostly) and their employers, USCIS has announced Premium Processing, with the required $2,500 fee, is available for OPT (pre and post-completion) as well as the STEM extension.
There are some confusing “start” dates which must be followed carefully. For cases (listed above) that are pending with USCIS as of March 6, 2023, the Premium Processing form I-907 can be filed now.
For new OPT cases (again, listed above), the form I-907 for Premium Processing CANNOT be filed until April 3, 2023. If a new pre or post-completion STEM extension is filed before April 3, the case will be rejected.
Finally, the Premium Processing I-907 can only be filed if it is filed together with the I-765 form and fee for work authorization (which is required for any type of OPT). Please make sure you verify these filing dates and form requirements with your International Student Office before filing any part of these cases. Good luck and let us know if any questions/problems arise
