A proposal to impose a heavy fee burden on foreign students studying in the United States has come to the fore. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed to impose a fee of $70,000 on students participating in the 'Optional Practical Training' (OPT) program for the first time to gain work experience in the United States

after completing their studies. It has suggested that a fee of $30,000 be imposed on those participating in OPT again. However, these are just proposals. They have not yet been implemented. The DHS will receive public comments on this from October 8 to November 9.

What is OPT?
OPT allows qualified foreign students studying in the United States on an F-1 visa to work in a job related to their studies. This is especially crucial for students studying in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

According to the proposed policy, the relevant educational institution must pay this fee before the student can apply for OPT. If the educational institution does not pay, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will not grant permission to work.

Why the fee?
DHS said the changes are proposed to prevent fraud and abuse in the immigration system. It said some educational institutions, agencies, and students are abusing the rules.

Currently, eligible students can receive OPT for up to 12 months at each educational level. STEM graduates will also receive an additional 24 months extension. The proposal is likely to be revised and final rules will be announced after public comment.