10/08/2026
🎓 US IMMIGRATION UPDATE: $70,000 Fee Proposed for Student Work Permits (OPT)
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a new proposal that could affect international students planning to work in the U.S. after graduation.
Under this proposed plan, U.S. colleges and universities would have to pay large new government fees to approve students for Optional Practical Training (OPT) work permits:
🔹 Proposed Fee Breakdown • First OPT Application: A proposed $70,000 fee paid by the school for each student. • OPT Extensions: An extra $30,000 fee for extensions, including 24-month STEM OPT.
🔹 Why Is DHS Proposing This? Government officials say the high fee is meant to reduce fraud and protect local jobs. However, universities and business leaders warn it could stop top international talent from coming to the U.S.
🔹 Is This Rule Active Right Now? ❌ NO. This is just a proposal. Current OPT rules and regular application fees remain in place. The public has 60 days to submit feedback before the government makes any final decision, and legal challenges are expected.
💡 Tip for F-1 Students: If you are currently on OPT or planning to apply soon, keep following your normal school process with your international student office (DSO).
👥 Have questions about your F-1 status or future work options? Contact us:
🌐 www.velielaw.com |
📞 1-405-310-4333 |
✉️ [email protected]
Disclaimer: General information only, not formal legal advice.
Our journey traces back to Jon's Great, Great Grandfather, Abraham Rockmore, a Jewish-Ukrainian immigrant who, at the young age of 13, entered Columbia Law School in New York City. His pivotal work post-World War II brought Holocaust victims to America, advocating for them in Congress and contributi...