What happened to Trump's Green Cards promise to college grads? Debate over $100K OPT fee plan heats up as experts react
In the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, US President Donald Trump proposed the idea of attaching a Green Card to the diplomas of foreign students, allowing them to remain in the US and work post-graduation. Since that time, significant changes have occurred, and with the current administration suggesting a $100,000 fee for Optional Practical Training (OPT), the gap between Trump’s promises and the actions or plans of his administration has widened considerably.
During an interview with “The All-In Podcast” in June 2024, Trump stated, “What I want to do, and what I will do, is — you graduate from a college, I think you should get automatically, as part of your diploma, a Green Card to be able to stay in this country.”
Trump’s $100K OPT fee plan: Here’s what experts have said
Experts have said that if the administration enforces a $100,000 fee on Optional Practical Training (OPT), international students may opt against attending schools and universities in the US.
According to attorney Adrian Pandev, the opportunity to work for a year post-graduation is a significant factor influencing students’ decisions to choose US institutions. It provides them with valuable work experience in the US, which enhances their resumes regardless of where they ultimately pursue their careers, the lawyer said.
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“F-1 OPT is also the only immigration status in which a young entrepreneur can launch a company in their field of study without having to invest significant capital or meet other difficult requirements.”
It allows a student one year to develop something of real importance, he said, stressing that “I have seen so many great companies start this way. We sure have come a long way from ‘Green Cards stapled to diplomas’.”
Netizens react
Meanwhile, Pandev’s post garnered several reactions, with one X user saying: “That’s great bro….but America 1st.”
“Millions American grad can’t get a job or any option in their own land . However an average Indian can land a job for cheaper , 80 hours week chained by visa sponsorship restriction . That’s slavery 2.0 FYI,” another said.
“We don’t need or want them taking jobs that should go to US grads,” a third user stated.
What is OPT? Why has it become a focal point for the Donald Trump administration?
OPT, or Optional Practical Training, is a program that permits international students holding an F-1 visa to engage in legal employment within their field of study. Following the completion of their degree, these students are allowed to remain in the United States legally and work for a duration of 12 months under this initiative. Currently, there is no fee required by the government for participation in this program.
However, several Republican leaders have expressed concerns regarding the OPT, suggesting that it has evolved into a pathway for obtaining H-1B visas. Companies often employ OPT students as trainees and subsequently apply for their H-1B visas, effectively excluding American workers from this process that is perceived to be dominated by foreign nationals.