Public comments flood US government websites over proposed H-1B, OPT fee hikes

Kana Liu, a Chinese Canadian living in the US on a work visa, felt compelled to speak up.

Faced with a Department of Homeland Security proposal to charge up to US$100,000 in fees for international students to work in the US after graduation under Optional Practical Training (OPT), she rushed to the government’s public comment portal.

“I firmly oppose the proposed $70,000 initial OPT fee and $30,000 subsequent fee,” she wrote on the federal comment site on October 12. “They create undue barriers for legitimate students and educational institutions while failing to effectively address the stated goals of preventing immigration fraud and protecting American workers.”

Liu is among thousands weighing in on two contentious proposals that could sharply raise fees for international students and employers of skilled foreign workers, fuelling debate and adding uncertainty for those hoping to study, work or remain in the US.