US White House backs $100,000 Optional Practical Training fee proposal

The White House has approved a proposal that would introduce a substantial $100,000 fee for Optional Practical Training programmes, a move that could reshape pathways for skilled workers, including thousands of Indian nationals, seeking employment experience in the United States.

OPT programmes allow international students who have completed their studies at US institutions to gain practical work experience in their field of expertise. The proposed fee represents one of the most significant cost increases for this visa category and would apply to both initial applications and extensions.

The approval from the White House marks an important procedural milestone, though the proposal must still navigate additional regulatory processes and potential public comment periods before implementation. The exact timeline for enforcement remains uncertain, with various government agencies likely to be involved in finalising the administrative framework.

Indian professionals constitute a substantial portion of OPT beneficiaries, with tens of thousands utilising the programme annually to gain US work experience before returning to India or pursuing permanent residency. Industry observers suggest the fee increase could deter some applicants, particularly from middle-income backgrounds, while potentially strengthening applications from candidates backed by well-resourced employers.

Stakeholders including technology companies, educational institutions and immigration advocates have indicated they will closely monitor implementation details, with some expected to raise concerns during any formal comment period regarding competitiveness and accessibility implications.