The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a fee of approximately ₹67.7 lakh ($70,000) for international students on F-1 visas to participate in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows work-based training after studies. An additional work-training program would require a fee of ₹29 lakh ($30,000), according to a DHS statement released this week.
The proposed rule aims to combat fraud, strengthen immigration system integrity, and protect US workers, DHS said. Indian students, who form the largest group of international students in the US with about 3.63 lakh enrolled in 2024-25, would be significantly affected. Participation in OPT among Indian students has reached around 1.44 lakh, highlighting the program's importance for transitioning from education to employment in the US, per livemint.com.
The fee proposal comes amid a 15% decline in Indian student enrollment in the 2025-26 academic cycle, attributed to tighter US visa policies. The OPT program is critical for Indian students seeking practical work experience post-graduation, and the new fees could impact their ability to participate. The DHS's move reflects broader efforts to regulate foreign visa holders and address concerns about job competition in the US labor market.
The DHS has opened a public comment period on the proposed rule, with details available on its official website. The final decision on the fee structure will follow after reviewing feedback from stakeholders, including educational institutions and international student communities.