"USCIS Targets OPT Students Amid Fraud Crackdown, Risk of Deportation"

In a recent development, former international students in the United States, particularly those engaged in Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs or currently employed, are facing severe challenges due to a shift in policy enforcement by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). A new directive, known as the 'Issue of Notice to Appear' policy by the USCIS, has put these students at risk of deportation. This initiative, part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), involves the issuance of notices based on undisclosed fraud investigations, potentially leading to arrest and detention. Students are being clandestinely accused of fraud related to the OPT program, marking a significant escalation in the scrutiny of international students' employment practices.

The crux of the issue lies in the operation of certain companies that target recent graduates for consulting positions, specifically aiming at those holding OPT status. These entities offer employment that purportedly requires further training, for which the students are charged. Unfortunately, the quality of this training is subpar, and often, the promised projects that are crucial for fulfilling the OPT's work experience criteria are non-existent. Consequently, students find themselves in a predicament where their professional engagements are merely nominal, forcing them to pursue part-time jobs elsewhere to support themselves. This deceptive practice not only undermines the integrity of the OPT program but also places the affected students in a precarious position with immigration authorities.

Despite the lack of public warnings from the DHS about these fraudulent schemes, actions are being taken against the companies involved. Through raids and investigations, DHS is collecting information on employees, including students enrolled in the OPT program. This data is then cross-referenced with existing records to identify individuals potentially involved in these scams. This secretive approach by the DHS and USCIS in labeling students as fraudsters without their knowledge has led to heightened anxiety and uncertainty among the international student community.

Given these alarming circumstances, immigration analysts are urging the affected students to proactively seek legal assistance. They recommend that students approach USCIS to clarify their situations and, if possible, have their names removed from the implicated lists through a legal process. This advice underscores the importance of addressing the issue head-on, as ignoring the situation could result in severe legal and immigration consequences.

In light of these developments, it's clear that international students, particularly those from India, who are pursuing or have completed their OPT in the U.S., are navigating a precarious landscape. With the DHS and USCIS intensifying their efforts to clamp down on OPT-related fraud, the need for vigilance and proactive measures has never been more critical. The community is encouraged to stay informed and seek reputable legal guidance to navigate these challenges effectively.