Indian Student Says Fake US Firm Led to OPT Loss, Warning Others

The student, who has not been named, received the order after U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) audited the company listed on their employment paperwork. Investigators found the firm had no physical office, no employees, and no business operations, classifying it as a shell entity.

The revocation came as a shock to the student, who had relied on the company's offer to maintain valid status under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. STEM OPT allows international graduates to work in the U.S. for up to 36 months, but requires a bona fide employer-employee relationship.

The student's case highlights a growing trend of fraudulent employers targeting international students, often charging fees for fake job offers or paperwork. USCIS has intensified audits of STEM OPT employers in recent years, leading to more revocations and deportations.

Immigration attorneys advise students to verify a company's legitimacy before accepting an offer, checking for a physical address, business registration, and employee records. They also warn against paying for job placements, as legitimate employers do not charge applicants.

The student's 30-day deadline to leave the U.S. has already begun, and they are now sharing their story to caution others in similar situations. "Don't trust a company just because they promise to sponsor your visa," the student said in a social media post, urging peers to conduct thorough due diligence.