The Department of Homeland Security aims to add a charge of up to $100,000 for participation in an employment program for international graduates of US colleges.
The proposal released Wednesday would require payment of $70,000 for all graduates with F-1 student status to participate in 12 months of Optional Practical Training, which provides a path for many to start careers before securing sponsorship through the H-1B specialty occupation program. Another $30,000 would be required for an additional work authorization through the program, including a two-year extension for graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs.
The rule aims to make it easier for American citizens to compete for jobs, DHS said in a statement. A spokesperson called the program a “back door” into the workforce.
“DHS is upskilling OPT to require foreign students to justify their worth to employers,” the spokesperson said.
It’s the latest six-figure charge the Trump administration has sought to impose on high-skilled foreign workers in the US. DHS in August proposed a $103,265 fee for new H-1B workers, weeks after an earlier charge on H-1B hires from outside the US was blocked by a federal court.
DHS said the latest H-1B fee was needed to justify the costs of administering legal immigration programs. It’s virtually certain to face legal challenges as well when it’s finalized.
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