New US visa rule raises financial burden for international students, increases hiring pressure

The United States' recent overhaul of student visa regulations is imposing significant new financial and administrative challenges on international students, including those from India. The changes, which eliminate the long-standing "duration of status" framework, require students to secure jobs and employer sponsorship much earlier in their academic careers. Under the new policy from the Department of Homeland Security, F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors will be admitted for a fixed period, rather than being allowed to stay for the entire duration of their academic programs. Those needing more time must now apply directly to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an extension. Furthermore, the grace period following Optional Practical Training (OPT) has been shortened from 60 days to 30 days, and the use of Day 1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for students pursuing a second degree at the same academic level is now restricted. Danielle Goldman, Co-founder and CEO of Build Talent Labs, described the changes as a "money grab," noting that students face additional filing fees ranging from $300 to $500, plus a $1,900 premium processing fee for faster responses. "This is creating more financial pressure for students and frankly, the US government saying, we believe there's money to be made here and we're going to implement this," she told ANI. The new system shifts visa extension approvals from educational institutions to the federal immigration system, requiring a lengthier USCIS process. Goldman emphasized that students, particularly those aiming for careers in technology and artificial intelligence, must secure job offers and employer sponsorship months before graduation to avoid falling out of status due to the shorter grace period. Restrictions on Day 1 CPT programs also remove a crucial backup option for graduates who don't secure an H-1B visa through the annual lottery, making it more difficult for companies to retain foreign talent. Despite these hurdles, Goldman advised students to prepare early by discussing career plans with potential employers and developing contingency plans, such as seeking cap-exempt H-1B sponsorship or utilizing options like the L-1 intra-company transfer visa.

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This is forcing international students to pay an extra USD 300 to USD 500 in filing fees, plus another USD 1,900 in premium processing if they want a response prior to five months. So this is creating more financial pressure for students and frankly, the US government saying, we believe there's money to be made here and we're going to implement this.