Trump Administration Proposes $70K Fee for International Students to Work in U.S.

It also said the fee was “necessary to ensure that schools, students, and employers participate in OPT for its intended purpose instead of a means to circumvent the H-1B visa program,” which refers to the work visa that allows American employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations such as technology, engineering, education, healthcare, and finance. OPT has often served as a bridge for students seeking work under H-1B visas, which the Administration has similarly targeted with higher fees.

DHS said it believes that the proposed fee would put the onus on schools “to exercise greater oversight and selectivity” when recommending students for OPT, and it would thus reduce fraud.

The proposal, however, like previous attempts to curb foreign enrollment, is expected to face legal challenges. On Oct. 5, educational organizations took the Administration to court following its efforts to limit a similar program, Curricular Practical Training. A $100,000 H-1B visa fee has also been blocked in courts.