A shocking number is now making the rounds across American tech forums. Over half a million jobs in the US are currently being done by international students on Optional Practical Training (OPT).
According to a DHS (Department of Homeland Security) report flagged by the Center for Immigration Studies, nearly 540,000 F-1 and M-1 visa holders are working under these programs.
These are not just college internships. Many are full-time roles in engineering, tech, and business jobs.
The main reason that companies prefer international talent over local talent is that these programs allow companies to bypass payroll taxes. That makes hiring OPT students even cheaper than hiring US citizens.
However, the story isn’t one-sided as OPT students aren’t exactly living easily either. Many face tight deadlines, visa rules, and unstable job security.
If they lose their job, they could be forced to leave the country in just 60 days. Moreover, a major part of these employees never get H-1B sponsorship, which can offer them long-term security and assurance.
Several international students, especially from India and China, take up unpaid internships or low-paying jobs just to stay within their status. Others live with constant fear of job loss, visa denials, or scams targeting their immigration status.
The US immigration system is a mess, and it is safe to say both sides have their fair share of problems with it.
