not necessarily. if you have an OPT and you are authorized to work than you can start working right away and eventually apply for H1.  The h1 for non-profit is exempted from the regular H1. You can apply for H1 for non-profit any time. You don't have to wait until April to file your H1. I hope this feedback helps. Good Luck.

white_flag · Mar 4, 2010 3:41 PM

thanks!

mankamna · Mar 4, 2010 3:43 PM

One more thing, my opt expires in may, so i have to apply for h1b before may. Once I get approval, I can keep working even after may??

mankamna · Mar 4, 2010 3:57 PM

Yes- under CAP policy. However, you must apply through CAP to continue the existing work.

Efficient · Mar 4, 2010 4:50 PM

no the non profit will either have to be GOV or higher education affiliated institutuon.....not all non profit qualify for cap exempt!!

aabakgarne · Mar 4, 2010 4:52 PM