Trump administration plans major student visa changes: Will limiting OPT help American workers or harm innovation?

The Trump administration is planning major changes to U.S. student visas, targeting the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme that allows international graduates to work in the country after completing their degrees. The proposed rule aims to protect American workers and enhance oversight, but experts warn it could reduce innovation and economic growth by limiting skilled STEM graduates. Policymakers, employers, and universities are closely watching the debate, which balances domestic job protection against maintaining U.S. competitiveness in technology, health care, and research.