DHS proposes new OPT fees for F-1 students

DHS published a proposed rule that would add OPT fees of $70,000 for initial OPT and $30,000 for later OPT. It is proposed, not final. General comments are due Nov. 9, 2026; information-collection comments are due Dec. 7, 2026.

DHS published a Federal Register proposed rule on Optional Practical Training fees for F-1 students. The proposal would add a $70,000 fee for initial OPT and a $30,000 fee for any subsequent OPT through a SEVP-certified institution. This is a proposed rule, not a final rule, and no effective date is listed in the Federal Register notice. General comments are due November 9, 2026. Information-collection comments are due December 7, 2026. Source: Federal Register document 2026-20660, 91 FR 64566, DHS Docket No. ICEB-2026-0100.

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