Homeland security proposes steep fees for student work permits

United States homeland security officials have proposed a fee structure for international students seeking temporary work authorizations. Foreign students holding F-1 visas will face a $70,000 (Rs 67 lakh) charge for their initial Optional Practical Training (OPT) period. Any subsequent OPT applications would require an additional $30,000 (Rs 29 lakh) payment under the new regulation as published on October 8. Department of Homeland Security representatives stated these steep costs will reduce corporate reliance on foreign workers and deter exploitation within the student visa system. Officials assert that the current OPT program functions as a channel for inexpensive labor that bypasses standard employment pathways. By forcing educational institutions to pay these sums before recommending students, the department hopes to eliminate fraudulent pay-to-stay schemes identified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

This regulatory shift reflects broader ongoing federal efforts to heavily restrict employment-based immigration and prioritize domestic job seekers over international talent in the competitive market. International scholars rely on OPT to secure practical work experience directly related to their academic fields. Students typically qualify for up to 12 months of employment, while graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics receive a 24-month extension. To participate legally, individuals must obtain approval from a designated school official and apply through US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Under the proposed framework, universities must remit the required fees directly to the US Treasury before processing any student recommendations. Authorities confirmed this financial burden is not attached to specific employers. If educational institutions fail to submit the payment, federal officers will automatically reject the employment authorisation requests. Public feedback on this controversial regulatory change will remain open until November 9. Federal authorities will thoroughly review all submitted comments before taking a final call.