🚨 Warning to International Students: Employer Asking Me to Work Before OPT + Fake Offer Letter

I’m posting this to warn other international students so no one accidentally ruins their visa status.

I’m a recent master’s graduate on OPT. I interviewed with a company called Luxe Cabinet & Stone of Orlando LLC (also referenced as Luxe Kitchen & Bath / Ellie Cabinetry & More).

Here’s what happened:

Red flags from a 5-minute Zoom interview: • No behavioral or job-related questions • Owner immediately emphasized H-1B and green card sponsorship • Asked me to relocate immediately and start working before my OPT start date • Said it was “not a problem” and that I could be paid later → This is illegal. Unpaid or delayed pay still counts as unauthorized work.

More issues: • Lied about another graduate “starting immediately” • Discouraged me from verifying with the other applicant • Offered to share another candidate’s contact info (huge HR violation) • Sent a so-called “offer letter” with: • No salary • No hours • No benefits • No sponsorship language • No real contract terms

I later verified independently that: • The other applicant never accepted the role

This looks like an attempt to exploit international students who are anxious about visas and employment.

Reminder to everyone on OPT / F-1: • You cannot work before OPT starts, even unpaid • “Trial periods,” “training,” or “we’ll pay you later” are all illegal • Verbal promises about H-1B mean nothing without written terms • A real offer letter always includes pay, hours, and job details

I’ve reported this to WashU so they can warn students.

Stay safe. Always check with your international office before starting anything.