SUBMIT PHOTO: The United States has actually proposed a USD 70,000 cost for global trainees taking part in OPT for the very first time, with a USD 30,000 cost for renewals.
The United States on Wednesday proposed a USD 70,000 charge for worldwide trainees looking for to operate in the nation after finishing their research studies, a relocation that might impact Indian youths looking for college in America.
The Department of Homeland Security proposed a guideline needing universities to pay a USD 70,000 cost for any Optional Practical Training (OPT) the trainee takes part in for the very first time.
For each subsequent renewal, the school will need to pay a USD 30,000 charge.
OPT guidelines for worldwide trainees
Under the OPT program, trainees are permitted to work for one year after finishing their research studies. The task under the OPT program should remain in a location associated to the trainee’s research studies. Trainees pursuing science, innovation, engineering and mathematics courses can work for 3 years.
The relocation comes amidst strong beliefs amongst an area in the United States versus worldwide trainees, who are implicated of cornering American tasks.
India was the biggest source of global trainees in the United States, with over 3.63 lakh registering for various courses in the 2024-25 scholastic year.
According to a current report by Common App, global trainees contributed USD 41.77 billion to regional economies in the fall of 2025-26. The contribution is forecasted at USD 38.37 billion in 2026-27.
International trainee numbers decrease
Based on information mentioned by NAFSA and research study company JB International, the variety of global trainees registered in United States organizations fell from an approximated 11.69 lakh in the 2025-26 scholastic year to 10.57 lakh this year.
In a declaration, DHS explained the charge as a reaction to scams and abuse of the visa program, which it called a “pipeline for inexpensive foreign labour.”
The general public has 60 days to talk about the proposition before DHS can settle it and put it into impact. The proposition likewise might deal with legal difficulties from college groups or company associations that may postpone it.
DHS safeguards proposed charge
“Optional Practical Training was never ever indicated to be a back entrance into the American labor force, an aid for low-cost labour, or a reward for those who video game the system,” a DHS representative stated.
“DHS is upskilling OPT to need foreign trainees to validate their worth to companies. American employees must not need to contend versus a program that has actually been developed into a pipeline for low-cost foreign labour,” the representative stated.
DHS stated the proposed guideline was triggered by scams and abuse recognized by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
As involvement in OPT has actually grown, SEVP has actually experienced schools, designated school authorities, companies and F-1 trainees supposedly making use of existing guidelines through plans including troublesome worksites and “pay-to-stay” visa plans, the department stated.
Released on October 7, 2026