San Francisco, CA immigration attorney Michelle Malison talks about F-1 visas. She explains that the most commonly held visa type by foreign national students in the United States is the F1 visa. Under normal circumstances, F1 visa holders are eligible for 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) in their field of study. We advise F1 students to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before graduation to ensure compliance with timing requirements. This allows them to pursue employment opportunities after completing their studies.