Singh0520

2 minutes ago, randomstairs said:

You should be fine. I've just googled this for you: "If your STEM OPT extension application is pending with USCIS, is is okay to travel internationally. This is true even if your 12-month OPT EAD is already expired." Source: https://iss.washington.edu/employment/f1-employment/opt/after-approval/

 

Like I said, the EAD is not really needed for traveling and with a valid I-20 and a visa you should be okay even if your STEM OPT is still pending. 

Awesome!! Thanks alot 

Just now, randomstairs said:

I see. But your current OPT will be valid, right? If your I-20 and the visa are valid you should be okay. Double check with your international student adviser though.   

Yes my I-20, visa and passport will be valid. My current EAD will be expired and my new EAD will be under process. 

30 minutes ago, randomstairs said:

If it's an OPT-based EAD then you don't *have* to present it at a port of entry. It's not a travel document like I-485-based EAD/AP. So, yes, you can travel as long as your visa is valid and your STEM OPT is extended. The EAD can certainly help but it's not a required document. Make sure you have other evidence of employment, job description, progress reports, etc. You should be fine. 

Thanks for your response! You mentioned "STEM OPT is extended", what do you mean? 
Like I mentioned my STEM OPT extension application will be under process when I'm returning back to the USA. So it's neither approved nor rejected.

I'm currently on OPT and will file for STEM OPT within the next few days. My current EAD expires on February 04, 2019.

It's very important for me to travel to India on February 10th. Since It's very unlikely that I would be receiving my new EAD before my travel, Would it be safe to travel and re-enter USA without EAD card? Can I use valid I-20, password, visa, EAD application receipts to re-enter?

Also, would it be safe if I travel to India without EAD and then once received, my roommates send me the new EAD to India?