US immigration authorities are investigating foreign students over alleged fake employment claims under the Optional Practical Training programme. The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement says around 10,000 foreign students are linked to highly suspicious employers under the OPT system. The probe includes students who claim work experience with companies that may not have real offices, active operations, or proper supervision.
Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons says the OPT programme is under scrutiny because investigators find possible fraud in employment records and training details. Federal site visits reportedly show empty offices, locked buildings, and cases where students are managed by employees based outside the United States. This goes against the OPT rule that training and supervision must happen through a valid US employer.
The investigation is important for international students, especially those on F-1 visas, because false employment claims can affect visa status, future work authorisation, and immigration records.
Key highlights
- ICE identifies around 10,000 students linked to suspect OPT employers.
- The probe focuses on fake job claims and doubtful work locations.
- Some cases involve supervision from outside the US.
- OPT students must work with valid employers.
- Students should keep accurate employment and training records.
The official US immigration website shares immigration notices, enforcement updates, and student visa-related information. Students should verify all OPT rules from official US sources before taking any action.