Trump’s $70,000 OPT fee proposal for international students explained: What is OPT and who will bear the cost? | Today’s news
The Trump administration’s proposal to introduce a $70,000 fee for initial optional practical training (OPT) has drawn attention to a program widely used by international students looking to gain work experience in the United States after graduation.
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed charging $70,000 for each F-1 student requesting initial OPT and $30,000 for any subsequent OPT. DHS says the move is aimed at combating fraud and abuse, strengthening the integrity of the immigration system and protecting American workers.
Here’s what the proposed change means and how the OPT system works.
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training, or OPT, is a temporary employment program for eligible F-1 international students in the US.
It allows students to work in jobs that are directly related to their major or field of study. The program is designed to provide international students with practical experiences that complement their academic education.
Students can generally seek OPT either before or after graduation.
Who can apply for OPT?
OPT is available to eligible F-1 nonimmigrant students enrolled in US educational institutions.
Students must receive a referral from their Designated School Official (DSO) before applying for employment authorization from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Work performed through OPT must be related to the student’s field of study.
How long can students work in OPD?
Eligible F-1 students may receive up to 12 months of OPT at each level of education.
For example, students progressing through different levels of education may become eligible for OPT related to each level, subject to applicable rules.
There is also a special provision for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) graduates.
Eligible STEM graduates can receive an additional 24-month extension, potentially allowing them to remain eligible to work longer after graduation.
How much does OPT currently cost?
Under the system outlined in the proposal, students currently face fees of roughly $500, making the proposed $70,000 fee a dramatic increase.
The proposed initial fee would be 140 times the current amount.
The proposal would also introduce a $30,000 fee for subsequent OPT, creating another significant financial barrier for students seeking additional job training.
Why is DHS proposing a $70,000 fee?
DHS says the proposed fees are intended to combat fraud and abuse, strengthen the integrity of the immigration system and protect American workers.
The ministry has expressed concern about how the OPT program is being used, saying some participants, employers and institutions have abused the existing rules.
DHS says its student and exchange visitor program has identified schemes involving problematic workplaces and so-called “pay-to-stay” arrangements in which students can maintain their immigration status without receiving legitimate educational or employment benefits.
The department argues that higher fees would encourage schools to do more oversight before recommending students for OPT.
Who would pay the proposed $70,000 fee?
The proposal would require a SEVP-certified school to pay a fee before its designated school official recommends an F-1 student for OPT.
The fee would apply if the school refers the student for OPT, rather than being tied to a specific employer.
However, the financial impact could ultimately extend to students, employers and educational institutions depending on how the costs are managed.
Does the proposal apply to all international students?
No. The proposed fee specifically applies to eligible F-1 nonimmigrant students seeking OPT.
This is not a flat fee of $70,000 for every international student studying in the US.
Students not seeking OPT would not be subject to the proposed OPT fee simply because they hold an F-1 visa.
When might the rule go into effect?
The proposal is not yet final.
The rule is subject to a 30-day public comment period before DHS can decide whether to finalize it.
DHS said it will wait 60 days after it is finalized before implementing the rule, giving schools, students and employers time to prepare.
Read also | US green card holder’s mother denied B1/B2 visa, leaves her confused
