A new DHS regulation could either end or sharply restrict optical practical training (OPT), altering the primary post-graduation work pathway for international students in the United States.

Introduction

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that it is preparing a new regulation that could change the rules surrounding student practical training programs—including Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is the program that allows international students to gain hands-on work experience in their field after completing their studies in the United States. While early reports suggest that the forthcoming proposal may limit or significantly narrow OPT, no changes have taken effect yet, and the full text of the proposal has not been released.

Key Features of the Proposed Regulation

Although DHS has not released the regulation yet, the federal agenda gives an early look at what the agency may be planning. These indicators suggest that DHS may seek to tighten how student practical training is structured and supervised. The proposal may:

• Aim to “better align practical training” with DHS’s program goals and increase oversight of OPT participation;
• Shorten, limit, or narrow eligibility for OPT or related work authorizations, potentially affecting the availability of post-graduation training; and
• Reflect DHS’s stated concerns about fraud prevention, national security, and the impact of OPT on the U.S. labor market.

At this stage, these points describe only the possible features of a future rule. Families and students should remember that nothing will change until DHS formally proposes a rule, receives public feedback, and issues a final version.

What Does This Mean for International Students?

For now, OPT remains fully available, and current rules continue to apply. Students who are planning to apply for OPT or STEM-OPT may continue to do so under the existing regulations.

It is understandable that early news about potential restrictions may cause uncertainty. However, proposed rules often change significantly during the review and comment process, and DHS has not yet presented detailed language explaining what it intends to do. Any final changes—if adopted—would also take time to implement.

_______________

Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading any content on our website does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal guidance tailored to your specific situation, consult a qualified immigration attorney.