USCIS Glitch Triggers Massive Fee Hike for STEM OPT

International students on a STEM OPT work permit got a nasty surprise this week as the USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services) portal suddenly started showing a $745 filing fee instead of the expected $470.

The panic started when one applicant tried filing their work authorization form (I-765) online and noticed the inflated charge. Others quickly checked and saw the same.

Confusion spread across social media, with worried posts pouring in from across the US. Many started to wonder if the fees for EAD (Employment Authorization Document) have also increased after the introduction of the “integrity fee” for US visas.

However, it turns out, this might just be a system glitch. Instead of charging the flat $470 for STEM OPT, the portal seems to be mistakenly adding fees like $85 for biometrics and another $190 under “miscellaneous.” Neither of those should apply to F-1 visa holders.

Some users say you’ll still only be charged $470 when you actually pay, even if the portal initially shows $745. But that hasn’t reassured everyone, as many are double-checking with the USCIS Fee Calculator or even calling the authorities just to be safe.

For Indian students already juggling work, visa rules, and now rising fees, this is just another stress bomb. Worse, most don’t know if they should wait, pay, or re-file.