OPT Payment Glitch Leaves F-1 Student in Limbo
A simple payment error has turned into a nightmare for one F-1 student applying for their post-completion OPT (Optional Practical Training) work permit. The applicant ended up paying $1,020 for their I-765 EAD (Employment Authorization Document) application, far more than the actual fee — $470 for an online filing or $520 for a paper application.
How a USCIS Glitch Caused the Overcharge
The unexpected overpayment happened due to a glitch on the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) payment portal. Without realising the error, the student proceeded with the transaction using a Discover credit card. It was only later that the excessive charge came to light.
Payment Dispute Raises New Risks
Hoping to recover the extra amount, the student filed a dispute with Discover. But this created a bigger worry. If the credit card company reverses the charge, USCIS could treat it as if no payment was made, which might lead to a denied OPT application. With the OPT application timeline already tight, a denial could mean losing the chance to work in the US unless the student gets a new I-20 from their university and reapplies.
Waiting Without Answers
Weeks have passed without a clear response from USCIS to the credit card company. The student remains uncertain whether they will get a refund, be asked for a new payment, or face the collapse of their application altogether.
A Warning for International Students
For international students on F-1 visas, this case is a reminder that even small payment mistakes in visa processes can have serious consequences. Whether caused by user error or a system fault, the impact often falls hardest on the applicant, who bears the stress and the risk of losing opportunities.
