US Firms Face Stricter Rules: Proposed OPT Program Overhaul Amid Immigration Crackdown
Image Source: Internet
{ "title": "US Firms Face Stricter Rules: Proposed OPT Program Overhaul Amid Immigration Crackdown", "article": "The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a new regulation for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, aiming to increase monitoring and address concerns about foreign students displacing American labor. The proposed rule, part of the 'Fairness for High-Skilled Americans Act of 2025,' seeks to protect American workers and combat fraud. Critics argue that the OPT program, established through regulation rather than Congressional action, prioritizes international labor over local job seekers. Some lawmakers propose taxing international students' earnings or revoking their exemption from FICA taxes. The OPT program allows international F-1 students to secure employment in the US for up to 12 months, with a possible 24-month extension for STEM degree holders. However, the number of international students participating in OPT has increased by 21% in the past year, despite a decline in international student enrollment. While the proposed rule is expected to continue the OPT program, American firms may face stricter regulations for employing international students. The debate surrounding the OPT program highlights the complex issue of immigration and labor in the US. Key points: - The DHS proposes a new OPT regulation to increase monitoring and address concerns about foreign students displacing American labor. - The 'Fairness for High-Skilled Americans Act of 2025' aims to protect American workers and combat fraud. - Critics argue that the OPT program prioritizes international labor over local job seekers. - Some lawmakers propose taxing international students' earnings or revoking their exemption from FICA taxes. - The proposed rule is expected to continue the OPT program, but with stricter regulations for American firms."
