Trump Administration Plans to Charge $70,000 to Foreign Students for Work Permit

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A government notice published today, Wednesday, shows that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has proposed imposing training fees of no less than $70,000 on international students wishing to work in the United States, in a move that comes as part of tightening measures by President Donald Trump's administration towards foreign visa holders. The proposal stipulates that international students holding F-1 visas must pay $70,000 to an accredited institution to participate in the Optional Practical Training program, which allows them to gain practical experience in the United States, in addition to $30,000 for any additional practical training programs.

The Department of Homeland Security stated that the new rules aim to "combat fraud, enhance the integrity of the immigration system, and protect American workers." Under the Optional Practical Training system, foreign students can participate in practical training for up to 20 hours a week while studying, as well as for a limited period after graduation, with an additional allowance for those holding degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Currently, those enrolled in this program are expected to pay around $500.