US Proposes $70,000 Fee For International Student Work Training
International students seeking work training in the United States may soon face a large new fee. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a $70,000 charge. This fee would apply to a common work training program. A government notice about this proposal was posted online on October 7.
This new rule is part of the Trump administration’s wider effort. It aims to tighten rules for people holding foreign visas. Under the proposal, students with F-1 visas would pay $70,000 for Optional Practical Training (OPT). They would pay an additional $30,000 for any other work training. Currently, students usually pay about $500 for OPT.
DHS stated these new rules will fight fraud. They will also make the immigration system stronger. The rules aim to protect American workers. OPT allows foreign students to work part-time while studying. It also lets them work for a short time after finishing school. Students in science, technology, engineering, and math fields get more time.
These training programs often help students seek H-1B work visas. The Trump administration has also targeted H-1B visas with higher fees. For many years, the H-1B program helped skilled workers from around the world. Many engineers and scientists from India and China found high-paying jobs this way. They could also move towards permanent US residency. Top US technology companies rely on these skilled workers.
During his 2024 campaign, then-candidate Donald Trump spoke differently. He said he would make it simpler for foreign students to stay. He even suggested they could get a Green Card after graduation. This current proposal marks a shift from that earlier idea.
Similar proposals from DHS have faced quick legal challenges. This new rule is also likely to be challenged in court. Doug Rand leads the Talent Mobility Fund. This group helps bring skilled foreign professionals to the US. He wrote on social media that this rule will likely fail in court.
The public can comment on the proposal for 30 days. After that, the rule can be finalized. DHS said it will wait 60 days after finalization. This time allows schools, students, and employers to prepare.
