DHS proposes massive new fees for foreign students who want to work

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a significant increase in fees for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows foreign students on F-1 visas to work in the United States. The proposal would raise the initial authorization fee from approximately $500 to $70,000, with a $30,000 fee for extensions. The DHS justifies the change as an effort to combat visa fraud and prevent the displacement of American workers by cheap foreign labor, while critics and advocacy groups argue the proposal lacks legal authority and will likely be struck down in court.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a significant increase in fees for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows foreign students on F-1 visas to work in the United States. The proposal would raise the initial authorization fee from approximately $500 to $70,000, with a $30,000 fee for extensions. The DHS justifies the change as an effort to combat visa fraud and prevent the displacement of American workers by cheap foreign labor, while critics and advocacy groups argue the proposal lacks legal authority and will likely be struck down in court.