Can I get married to a U.S. Citizen while my STEM OPT extension is pending?

[smile-miss]

Hi, my boyfriend is a U.S. Citizen and I'm currently holding F-1 student visa. My initial OPT has expired in July, and I applied for STEM OPT Extension in April. The application is still pending, and I'm currently using the 180-day waiting time of STEM OPT application to work.


We are planning to get the marriage license & certificate soon. If I get married to him now (but don't file for green card yet), will this affect my stem opt extension application?

Thank you!