The United States is investigating allegations of widespread fraud in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows international students on F-1 visas to work in their field of study for up to 36 months. Approximately 10,000 foreign students and their employers are under scrutiny. The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) claims to have found evidence of significant fraud and abuse within the OPT program. ICE's Acting Director Todd Lyons described the program as a 'center of fraud.' Investigations revealed that many institutions listed as employers had no operational presence, with some addresses leading to empty buildings or locked offices. Additionally, multiple institutions were found to be using the same address, and some claimed to have hundreds of OPT workers despite minimal actual operations.
Growing Uncertainty for International Students
Analysts warn that this investigation could significantly impact international students, especially given the recent trends of job cuts, reduced hiring, and stricter visa verification processes in various sectors, including technology. The challenge of securing employment post-graduation in the US is becoming increasingly complex.
