OPT
Get the latest on OPT for graduates – essential tips, application guidelines, and updates on work permits for international students in the U.S.
How International Students Subsidize U.S. Education—and the H-1B Crackdown
A proposed $100,000 one-time fee on new H-1B petitions could deter international students, cut university revenues (potentially $3 billion), and weaken U.S. research by disrupting the OPT-to-H-1B pipeline. Stakeholders call…
Grassley Urges DHS to Stop F-1 Student Work Permits
Sen. Chuck Grassley urged DHS to end F-1 work permits under OPT, citing legal and security concerns. OPT…
USCIS Expands Unannounced Site Visits for H-1B and F-1 Workers
Effective January 17, 2025, DHS strengthened FDNS authority for surprise site visits of H-1B and F-1 (OPT/STEM OPT)…
Surprise FDNS Inspections Target F-1 OPT and STEM OPT Students
FDNS and ICE increased surprise inspections of F-1 students on OPT/STEM OPT, checking I-983s, employment proof, and SEVIS…
14-Year Odyssey to U.S. Permanent Residency Highlights EB-1A Backlogs
After 14 years in the U.S. immigration system, Rajasegar obtained a Green Card via EB-1A in September 2025.…
Is the Indian American Dream Transforming Under Immigration Hurdles
A proposed $100,000 H‑1B supplementary fee, possible OPT restrictions, and long green card backlogs threaten Indian students and…
Why Ending OPT Could Outweigh the H-1B Fee in U.S. Tech
A $100,000 fee now applies to new H-1B petitions filed from outside the U.S., but exemptions for OPT-to-H-1B…
Grassley Demands End to OPT for F-1 Students Amid Tensions
Sen. Grassley urged DHS to end OPT work authorizations for F-1 students, threatening 12–36 month post-study work rights.…
New $100,000 H-1B Fee Threatens OPT Path for Indian Students
A new $100,000 fee applies to certain H-1B petitions for workers abroad starting September 21, 2025, for 12…
Dignity Act and HIRE Act: Higher FICA for OPT Wages
Congress is reviewing the Dignity Act, ending FICA exemptions for OPT students, and the HIRE Act, adding a…