A software engineer nearing the final year of their STEM OPT has sparked a wider debate online after posting about mounting uncertainty over their future in the United States. Sharing the experience on Reddit, the user questioned whether it was time to “pack bags and return home already” as visa hurdles and tightening hiring trends collide.
Growing Worries Over Last H-1B Attempt
According to the post, the individual has “close to one year of STEM OPT left (last H-1B attempt)” and is currently employed in what they described as a low-paying software engineering role. Despite feeling grateful for their position, the user outlined how constraints around work authorization are limiting opportunities. Major tech employers, they wrote, are “putting interviews or team matching on hold asking to get H-1B first due to risk of uncertainty with less than 2 H1 attempts left.”
Small Firms Also Reluctant to Hire
The user added that mid-size and smaller companies are dismissing applicants with OPT status, making job transitions unusually difficult. They noted that “mid-size or small companies [are] rejecting interviews seeing OPT status,” and that companies often favor candidates who are earlier in their work authorization timeline. “Companies preferring individuals who just started OPT now over STEM OPT ones,” the post explained.
Limited Alternate Pathways Add to Stress
Beyond the US job market, the user highlighted the growing challenge of exploring secondary routes. “Challenges with reduced preference for Canada + L1 route or Day-1 CPT options,” they wrote, adding that even the usual backup countries are tightening pathways. They also expressed concern over potential immigration policy changes, including the possibility that “higher paying senior roles [may get] more preference in upcoming lottery in Mar 2026 over junior new-grads.”
Fear of Changes to STEM OPT Rules
Another major worry raised in the thread is the risk of regulatory changes. The Redditor wrote about “possible changes to STEM OPT program (more restrictions or complete removal),” suggesting that even those currently compliant with existing rules feel uncertain about future stability.
Seeking Advice From Others in Similar Situations
Despite holding what they described as a “decent-paying job,” the user admitted they were trying to decide the next move as STEM OPT counts down. “Given the market situation, I am truly grateful to even have a decent-paying job but trying to figure out next options now post F-1 STEM OPT,” they wrote. The post ended with a call for guidance: “Any fellow members in a similar situation… Any help or suggestions appreciated!”
Disclaimer: This story is based on a post shared by a social media user. The details, opinions, and statements quoted herein belong solely to the original poster and do not reflect the views of Financialexpress.com. We have not independently verified the claims.