Travel while OPT.... unique situation

[mdcowboy]

I have just completed my PhD and I have to travel to India. I expect to receive my I797 receipt soon. However I do have to renew my VISA in India. I do have a job offer in a related field of study. Do I need my EAD card for that or can I try to apply for VISA using the I797 receipt? I have valid I-20 and passport if anyone's wondering. Thank you in advance for help/suggestions.

[axman1000]

I have just completed my PhD and I have to travel to India. I expect to receive my I797 receipt soon. However I do have to renew my VISA in India. I do have a job offer in a related field of study. Do I need my EAD card for that or can I try to apply for VISA using the I797 receipt? I have valid I-20 and passport if anyone's wondering. Thank you in advance for help/suggestions.

I am not very well versed in these matters, but it is always safer to first get your EAD card before doing anything. It serves as a more concrete proof if things go wrong at any time.