DHS proposes $70,000 fee for international student work permits
DHS proposes $70,000 international student work authorization fee amid broader policy restrictions.
Event / Geopolitics
Trump Administration International Student Policy
The Trump administration proposed a $70,000 fee for international students seeking Optional Practical Training work authorization, part of broader restrictions on foreign enrollment and skilled immigration including status terminations, deportations, and four-year stay limits. The proposal faces a 60-day public comment period and expected legal challenges.
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2026-10-08 to 2026-10-30 · UTC publication dates
Coverage begins 8 Oct, 00:07 UTC
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What happened
Department of Homeland Security proposes $70,000 fee for international student work authorization
The Department of Homeland Security proposed a new rule requiring schools to pay a $70,000 fee for each international student participating in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, with an additional $30,000 fee for renewal. The OPT program allows international students to work in jobs related to their major during or after their studies. Students are generally eligible for one year of work post-graduation, with science, technology, engineering and math majors eligible for an additional two years. DHS stated the fee aims to combat fraud and abuse of the visa program.
Trump administration has increased restrictions on international students throughout tenure
The Trump administration has implemented multiple measures restricting international student enrollment and work rights. Last year, the administration terminated the legal status of thousands of international students and deported many of them. This summer, the administration finalized a rule limiting international student stays to four years without federal government approval, which was blocked by federal court before taking effect in September.
Public comment period established for proposed international student work fee
The Department of Homeland Security established a 60-day public comment period for the proposed $70,000 fee for international student work authorization. After the comment period ends, DHS will wait an additional 60 days before implementing the rule to allow schools, students, and employers time to prepare.
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