The Law Offices of Sabrina Li recently achieved a successful result for a postdoctoral researcher whose I-765 application for post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) was threatened by a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) issued by USCIS. The NOID alleged that the client had misrepresented her prior OPT employment by reporting Findream LLC (Finddream) as her employer during her master’s OPT period and accused her of failing to maintain F-1 status. Within just one month of our legal response, the client’s postdoctoral OPT was approved, allowing her to continue her research career in the United States.
Our client entered the United States on an F-1 visa to pursue a master’s degree in engineering. Upon completing her program, she participated in post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) from 2016 to 2017, during which she reported Findream as her employer.
Unbeknownst to the client at the time, years after her reported engagement with Findream, USCIS determined that the company—along with its owner and affiliated entities—had engaged in visa fraud. Specifically, they were found to have assisted individuals in obtaining or maintaining OPT and H-1B status without legitimate offers of employment.
Continuing her academic journey, the client subsequently enrolled in a Ph.D. program, which she completed successfully.
However, upon submitting her Form I-765 application for postdoctoral OPT based on her Ph.D. degree, USCIS issued a NOID in January 2025. In the NOID, USCIS alleged that she had willfully misrepresented her employment history and failed to maintain valid F-1 status by exceeding the allowable 90-day unemployment limit during her previous OPT period.
USCIS further asserted that these alleged violations invalidated her prior OPT and raised significant discretionary concerns regarding the adjudication of her current OPT application.
We quickly prepared and submitted a comprehensive response, demonstrating the client’s good faith, ongoing F-1 compliance, and lack of willful misrepresentation. We also clarified the legitimacy of her actions during her master’s OPT and addressed USCIS’s concerns with persuasive documentation.
Following a thorough review of the response and supporting evidence, USCIS approved the applicant’s Form I-765 and granted her post-completion OPT within a month. She is now actively engaged in advanced research in artificial intelligence and energy applications, continuing her professional development in full compliance with U.S. immigration law.
Through our extensive case experience and insights from other experienced AILA immigration attorneys, we have identified several companies that frequently draw significant scrutiny from immigration authorities. Students affiliated with these organizations may face heightened scrutiny, OPT/STEM OPT denials, entry issues at U.S. borders, visa revocations, and in some severe cases, expedited removal from the United States directly at the airport.
These companies include, but are not limited to:
Historically, companies like Findream LLC, Sinocontech, and Tellon Trading, Inc. have ceased operations following investigations. More recently, entities such as Dream Chase Technology and APEX IT Systems have emerged, continuing similar practices of attracting international students into questionable employment arrangements aimed solely at maintaining immigration status rather than providing genuine professional experience.
If you have previously worked or interned with any of these or similar companies, we strongly advise exercising caution in your future immigration applications and international travel.
This case exemplifies our firm’s success in defending clients whose OPT was threatened due to past association with Findream and similar companies. Led by certified immigration law specialist Sabrina Li, our team has repeatedly resolved OPT and H-1B cases involving allegations of misrepresentation, status violations, and pay-to-stay schemes.
If you or someone you know is facing similar issues, don't face it alone. Contact the Law Offices of Sabrina Li at (213) 375-8096 or email us at info@sabrinali.law. We are ready to defend your rights and help you continue your journey in the United States.
Our attorneys possess diverse immigration experience and have an in-depth understanding of the complex interplay between various immigration laws, policies, and regulations, ensuring accurate and comprehensive guidance. We offer a full range of immigration services, addressing all aspects of your case while identifying potential opportunities and challenges.
We provide a tailored approach to each client's case, ensuring that you receive individualized attention and a customized strategy for your unique situation. We adjust our strategy as your needs or circumstances change, guaranteeing a seamless transition between different phases of your immigration journey.
Our team is composed of immigrant and first-generation American professionals, along with individuals from various cultural backgrounds. Many of us have firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced during the immigration process. This allows us to provide guidance and advocacy rooted in authentic understanding.
