DHS Suggests $70,000 Fee for Foreign Students' Work Permits

WHO:

Fox News - The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is involved in proposing the fee.

IJR - The proposal affects F-1 visa holders, specifically foreign students in the United States.

WHAT:

NY Post - DHS's proposed rule would implement new fees for international students seeking temporary employment in their field of study.

Fox News - DHS proposed a fee of $70,000 for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 visa holders.

IJR - The total fees proposed by DHS could reach up to $100,000 for STEM graduates, including a $30,000 fee for OPT.

WHY:

Fox News - DHS described the OPT program as a "pipeline for cheap foreign labor" into the workforce.

IJR - The proposal was framed by DHS as a measure to address concerns regarding foreign labor in the U.S. job market.

(UPDATED October 8, 2026 11:02 UTC)

The Department of Homeland Security is proposing a new rule that would introduce fees for international students who are looking to secure temporary employment in their field of study. This change has been reported by the New York Post. If implemented, it could significantly impact the financial landscape for many international students in the U.S.

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(UPDATED October 8, 2026 01:36 UTC)

The Department of Homeland Security is proposing a fee of $70,000 for Optional Practical Training for F-1 visa holders, which specifically targets foreign students in the United States. This proposal could total up to $100,000 for STEM graduates, including a $30,000 fee for OPT. DHS has described the OPT program as a "pipeline for cheap foreign labor," framing the proposal as a way to address concerns about foreign labor in the U.S. job market.