ICE Uncovers 10,000+ Fraud Cases in Student OPT Work Program – Immigration Alert 2026

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has announced it is investigating more than 10,000 potential fraud cases connected to the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, a work authorization pathway for international students on F-1 visas. The scale of the investigation represents one of the largest fraud enforcement actions targeting a student employment program in recent history. OPT allows F-1 international students to work in the U.S. in fields related to their studies for up to 12 months, with STEM graduates eligible for a 29-month extension. The program has long been scrutinized for potential abuse, including fraudulent employer sponsorships and students working outside their field of study. For EB-3 applicants, this development is notable as it reflects a broader trend of increased immigration enforcement under the current administration. Many employment-based green card applicants previously held or currently hold OPT status, and increased scrutiny of work authorization records could affect pending or future applications. Applicants with prior OPT work history are advised to ensure their employment records are fully documented and compliant. Any discrepancies between OPT work authorization periods and actual employment could draw additional scrutiny during green card adjudication. Consulting an immigration attorney is recommended for those with complex work history timelines.