DHS proposes new fees for nurse visa holders pursuing optional training

The Department of Homeland Security issued a proposed rule that would establish fees for foreign nursing students and other healthcare students seeking Optional Practical Training. The OPT program allows F-1 students to work in the U.S. in positions related to their study fields after graduation. DHS proposes a $70,000 fee for an initial OPT authorization and $30,000 for any subsequent authorization, citing concerns about fraud, program integrity and protection of U.S. workers. The American Hospital Association says the proposal could significantly affect hospitals relying on international graduates, including nurses, physicians, pharmacists and others, since OPT often serves as a pathway into the healthcare workforce. The AHA will evaluate the proposed rule’s potential impact on workforce recruitment and retention. Comments are due Nov. 9. (AHA News article, 10/8/26)