NewsFlash! DHS Proposes $70,000 Initial OPT Fee and $30,000 Fee for Subsequent OPT

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a proposed rule on October 7, 2026, that would require Student and Exchange Visitor Program-certified schools to pay $70,000 before first recommending an F-1 student for optional practical training (OPT), and $30,000 before a subsequent OPT recommendation after the initial fee has been paid. The proposal covers pre-completion and post-completion OPT, including STEM OPT extensions; the fee would be paid by the school, not assessed directly to the student or a particular employer. The proposal is scheduled for publication in the Federal Register on October 8, 2026.

These fees are not in effect. If DHS finalizes the rule as proposed, it would take effect 60 days after publication of a final rule, and the new fee would not apply to an OPT recommendation issued before that effective date. DHS is accepting comments on the proposed rule through November 9, 2026. Students, schools, and employers should continue following current OPT requirements while monitoring this proposal. Murthy Law Firm is reviewing the potential impact and will provide further analysis on MurthyDotCom.

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