I'm currently working under OPT in the US and haven't applied or received H1B yet. I'm wondering if I switch jobs and I take some free time before the new job starts, how those non-emoloyed days would count against my OPT. Also is there potentially any legal consequences that I need to know about?
As long as you have a new job offer aligned, you can travel outside of US. Talk to your DSO.
Its best to start the job and take unpaid time off. Negotiate with the company beforehand explaining your situation. As long as you've officially started you'll be on safe standing.
You are allowed a total of 90 unemployment days over the period of your OPT. If you get an OPT Extension then you get additional 60 https://www.uh.edu/oisss/opt-details/90-150-day-unemployment-rules/
Any idea if traveling outside of US during those unemployment days is a good idea (given that another job is already in hand)?
I don’t know about that