The same OIRA notice that revealed the PERM submission also disclosed that DHS’s economically significant rule “Optional Practical Training Fees” completed White House review on 11 September 2026 and was returned to the department “consistent with change,” clearing the way for public release. While DHS has not published the fee table, agency insiders indicate the rule will introduce a US$650 programme-management surcharge on Form I-765 filings for both 12-month OPT and the 24-month STEM OPT extension, plus a US$150 SEVIS systems fee payable by universities. DHS argues the new revenue stream is necessary to offset the compliance and fraud-prevention costs of monitoring nearly 400,000 active OPT participants annually. Universities and employers worry the surcharge will deter talent that already faces high visa issuance fees and, in some cases, state-level tuition premiums. A National Foundation for American Policy model shows the added costs could push total first-year expenses for a STEM OPT worker above those for Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit, narrowing the United States’ competitiveness edge. The proposed rule now heads for Federal Register publication, after which a comment period—likely 30 or 60 days—will open. If finalised quickly, the fee could apply to spring 2027 graduates. Corporate mobility programmes that subsidise OPT filings should anticipate budgeting increases and adjust offer-letter templates accordingly.
Source: Envoy Global
