Over 3 Lakh Indian Students at Risk as U.S. Considers Ending Work Visa Program
Date: 08-apr-2025
More than 300,000 Indian students studying in the United States could soon face an uncertain future due to a proposed U.S. Congressional bill aiming to eliminate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. This visa route currently allows international students—especially those in STEM fields—to work in the U.S. for up to three years after completing their degrees.
What is OPT and Why It Matters?
The OPT program is a vital bridge between graduation and long-term employment for international students. It gives them the opportunity to gain industry experience and apply for H-1B work visas while staying legally in the U.S. For Indian students, it also helps manage the burden of educational loans and tuition costs, which are often significant.
What Does the Proposed Bill Say?
The new legislation aims to scrap the OPT program entirely, forcing students to return home immediately after graduation unless they can secure an H-1B visa—a process limited by lottery and quotas. This has triggered widespread panic among students who are now scrambling to seek alternate career options or relocate to countries with more flexible post-study work policies.
Immediate Impacts and Concerns
- Students currently enrolled may not be eligible for U.S. work post graduation.
- Many could be forced to return to India within weeks of completing their courses.
- Repayment of U.S. education loans may become difficult without job opportunities abroad.
- Migration interest is rising for countries like Canada, Germany, and Australia, which offer stable work pathways.
Industry and Legal Reactions
Experts in education and immigration law are voicing strong opposition to the bill, calling it “short-sighted” and “damaging to the U.S. economy.” They point out that international students not only bring talent, but also contribute billions to the U.S. economy through tuition, housing, and local spending.
Also Read
Consultants also report a significant increase in queries about moving to other countries for higher education and career growth.
What Should Students Do Now?
While this is still a proposed bill and not law yet, students are advised to:
- Consult with their university's international office for legal guidance.
- Explore internships or job offers with H-1B sponsorship in advance.
- Stay updated on official announcements and immigration news.
Closing Note
This is not the first time OPT has faced political pushback, and previous efforts to remove it have failed. However, in the current climate, students must remain proactive, informed, and flexible about their career paths.
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