The Trump administration is intensifying unannounced inspections of foreign students participating in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme, particularly those on the two-year STEM OPT extensions. Immigration officers are reportedly visiting homes and student housing to ensure compliance with federal regulations. This increase in inspections has raised concerns among students and immigration attorneys alike.

According to the latest Open Doors report for 2023-24, there are approximately 3.3 lakh Indian students studying in the US, with around 97,556 involved in the OPT programme, many of whom are in STEM fields. The Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS) unit of the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible for verifying that students' training plans align with their academic fields and that they maintain valid F-1 student visa status.

One student shared, "I just received this inspection unexpectedly today at my residence and was requested additional documents." Another student noted that USCIS officials have been frequently visiting university housing for verification purposes. Immigration attorney Ashwin Sharma commented, "These inspections are lawful, and another tool dusted off and used by the Trump administration to continue its crackdown on F-1 students."

Abhinav Tripathi, another immigration attorney, pointed out that while regulations do not typically allow routine visits to student residences, the recent uptick in inspections reflects a broader trend of increased immigration enforcement. Kripa Upadhyay, an immigration attorney, explained that FDNS officers conduct unannounced inspections and often request documentation related to work location, hours, salary, and job duties.

Sharma advised students and employers to keep their Form I-983 accurate and current, promptly update any employment changes, and be prepared to explain how their work relates to their degree. He cautioned that non-cooperation or inconsistencies during inspections could jeopardize their OPT or F-1 status.

Poorvi Chothani, founder of LawQuest, noted that inspections often occur when students apply for STEM extensions or list remote work arrangements. She emphasized the importance of providing accurate information in applications and updating residential addresses on the USCIS portal within ten days of moving.

Requests for Evidence (RFEs) are also on the rise, particularly concerning students' criminal issues or adverse information during OPT-EAD applications. Jath Shao, an immigration attorney, highlighted that RFEs are common for individuals transitioning between visa statuses, with increased scrutiny on job changes and the legitimacy of their educational pursuits.

For Indian students, who represent the largest group on STEM OPT, this heightened scrutiny necessitates meticulous record-keeping and prompt reporting of any changes to USCIS and their universities.