The U.S. Department of Homeland Security posted a notice on its website on Oct. 7 proposing that international students on F-1 visas pay high training fees to work in the United States. Under the proposal, those participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT) would have to pay US$70,000 (about RMB 500,000) to a certifying body, with an additional US$30,000 for further training.
Currently, students participating in OPT pay only about US$500. OPT allows foreign students to take part in work training for no more than 20 hours per week while in school and to continue for a limited period after graduation. Students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields can receive additional time. Such programs are generally seen as a bridge to H-1B work visas. The Trump administration had previously raised H-1B visa fees, and related high-fee proposals were rejected by courts.
DHS said the new rule aims to "combat fraud, strengthen the integrity of the immigration system and protect American workers." It said it is developing fee standards to ensure that the activities of employers, students and institutions are consistent with the purpose of admission under the F-1 nonimmigrant visa.
Notably, during his 2024 campaign, Trump promised to make it easier for foreign students to stay in the United States, even proposing automatic green cards after graduation. Doug Rand, director of the Talent Mobility Fund, said the proposed rule "will not fare well in court." The proposal will undergo a 30-day public comment period before being finalized. The rule would take effect 60 days after being finalized to allow schools, students, and employers to prepare.
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