Why US is cracking down on a post-study work programme that Indians depend on for H-1B visas

The United States is intensifying enforcement against the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, a post-study work authorization that many Indian students rely on as a bridge to H-1B visas. The program allows foreign graduates to work in the U.S. for up to three years in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.

Critics argue that OPT undermines the U.S. labor market by allowing foreign workers to compete with American graduates. The Trump administration previously proposed tightening rules, and current enforcement actions include increased site visits and audits of employers hiring OPT participants.

Indian nationals are the largest beneficiaries of OPT, accounting for over a third of participants in recent years. Many use the program to gain work experience while waiting for H-1B lottery results, which have low odds of selection.

The crackdown has sparked concern among universities and tech companies, which view OPT as a critical tool for attracting global talent. Some legal challenges have been filed against proposed restrictions, but the Biden administration has not signaled major changes to the program.

Observers say the heightened scrutiny could reduce the number of Indian students choosing U.S. universities, potentially affecting enrollment and the pipeline of skilled workers for American companies.