U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials are reporting extensive organized fraud within the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, alleging it has evolved into an unregulated guest-worker system that disadvantages American laborers.
Federal authorities warned Tuesday that a primary student visa program has been compromised by “organized fraud,” transforming an educational opportunity into a massive off-the-books guest-worker initiative.
According to the Washington Times, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials found businesses claiming hundreds of foreign students under Optional Practical Training (OPT) who were nowhere to be found during site visits. In one instance, a Texas employer claimed three students despite paperwork listing 500.
Originally intended for short-term internships, the program expanded to over 418,000 authorized workers by 2024. ICE acting director Todd Lyons stated, “We are uncovering evidence of organized fraud that spans national and international borders. This fraud is not victimless. It is a blatant attack on the American people.” Officials noted that tax exemptions create financial incentives for firms to prioritize foreign students over domestic applicants.
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