The US government is considering a steep new fee for international students who want to work in America after finishing their studies. Reports suggest a charge of $100,000 could be applied to Optional Practical Training (OPT) visas, which extend student visas and allow graduates to work in fields related to their studies for one to three years. Around 4,19,000 foreign graduates were using OPT in 2024.
This idea comes after a court blocked a similar $100,000 fee proposal for H1-B work visas. Tech companies, which hire many graduates from US universities, had strongly opposed that earlier plan. Officials say discussions are ongoing and no decision is final yet, but the Department of Homeland Security is exploring ways to tighten immigration rules.
Alongside the OPT fee, the State Department is also weighing a $100,000 bond requirement for green card applicants outside the US. This bond would only be returned once applicants move to the US and eventually gain citizenship.
The OPT programme is a major draw for international students, as it lets them gain US work experience before returning home or moving into longer-term visas. Without OPT, most would have to leave immediately after graduation, taking their skills to other countries. A fee this high could discourage many from studying in the US, raising concerns about the impact on universities, employers and America’s ability to attract global talent.