F1 Visa validity for reentry

[sasi_u2011]

Hi all,

I am currently on STEM OPT. My F1 visa on passport is valid till may 2012 and I am planning to travel to India in Dec-Jan. My new EAD started on 08-16-11 and is good till 01-16-2013, so am I good to travel?? Also, at the bottom of my EAD it says "Not valid for reentry to U.S.", what does this mean??

Thanks,

[kabkaba]

That means EAD itself is not valid for re-entry, you need an F1 Visa to re-enter. Yes, you can travel.

[sasi_u2011]

I understand that what I am going to ask is always an uncertainty, but do you think the immigration officer at POE might ask like, "you have f1-visa issued way back, what are you doing still as a student?" and if I say about work and my intent to apply for H1 in the coming year, will it jeopardize anything?

[kabkaba]

There is no need to mention H1. OPT is sufficient reason. Don't worry. You will be fine. They may not even see your EAD. They are most interested in your passport, visa and I-20.

[sasi_u2011]

Thanks, buddy!