A Reddit post from a software developer navigating the uncertainty of the H-1B visa lottery has sparked discussion after the user asked whether it would be smarter to remain with their current employer or switch to a higher-paying job while on STEM OPT.
The user explained that they are currently working as a software developer earning $85,000 annually and are on STEM OPT, a temporary work authorization program available to international students in the US after graduation.
According to the post, the developer’s employer filed an H-1B registration this year, but the application was not selected in the lottery process.
The user also revealed they recently received another job offer worth $120,000 annually from a different employer, which would permit employees to use Day 1 CPT if future visa lottery attempts fail.
The discussion comes amid online debates about H-1B visas, STEM OPT programs and the role of US education and employment pathways for international workers.
