Looking for advice on CPT and L1 options

General
1

Here’s my situation: My bachelor degree graduated from a U.S. university, and my OPT is set to expire in May this year. I’m exploring backup options in case I don’t get selected in the H1B lottery again.

My employer willing to accept L1 visa and Day1CPT.

From the research I’ve done, there seems to be a suggestion that since I haven’t pursued a master’s degree in the U.S., I could enroll in a one-year master’s program with Day 1 CPT. After graduating, I could then apply for a new OPT for the master’s degree, which could give me another three years to work.

This honestly sounds a bit too good to be true, so I have a few questions:

  1. Is this plan realistic? Has anyone successfully done this?
  2. Anyone think L1 visa is better?
  3. If it’s possible, is it realistic to complete a Day 1 CPT program within a year? Are there any potential pitfalls with such programs?
  4. My I-140 petition is about to be submitted (as some people in my situation might also have Day 1 CPT and a green card application in progress). Would being on CPT conflict with or affect my I-140?
2
  1. yes, it makes sense and it is what a lot of ppl do.
  2. If you use L1 then it means you will need to work abroad for at least 1 year and then coming back. it is also a good option if theres no risk of being laid off.
  3. Only few schools offer the option, normally it takes at least 16 months to finish. make sure the degree is highly aligned with what you are doing.
  4. yes, F-1 is a non-immigrant visa, once your i-140 gets approved, then it means you have immigration tendency, it will be a risk if you travel abroad and reenter in the US.

hope it help!