In mid-May 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) issued warning letters to several F-1 students participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT). The letter, titled “Notice of Failure to Report Optional Practical Training Employer and Exceeding Permissible Period of Unemployment,” warned students that their SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) records would be terminated if they failed to report valid employer details within 15 days of the notice.
OPT Rule Breach May Lead to SEVIS Termination and F-1 Visa Loss
These warnings were issued because some students had been on OPT for over 90 days without updating their employment status in the SEVIS system. According to federal regulations, F-1 students are not allowed to exceed 90 days of unemployment during the standard 12-month OPT period. Students who fail to report employment are considered to be accumulating unemployment days, putting them at risk of losing their F-1 status and facing possible deportation.
OPT allows F-1 visa holders to engage in temporary employment directly related to their field of study. However, periods of unemployment during OPT are closely monitored, and exceeding the 90-day limit can lead to the termination of their SEVIS record. If a student’s SEVIS status is terminated, they must either correct their record, leave the U.S., or potentially face enforcement action from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
F-1 Students Urged to Act Fast as SEVIS Terminations Loom Over OPT Rule Violations
The notices, sent on May 15, mean affected students could see their SEVIS status terminated as early as May 31. Students were strongly advised to coordinate with their Designated School Officials (DSOs) to update employer details promptly and ensure compliance with immigration rules. Staying proactive and informed about changes in OPT regulations is crucial to maintaining lawful F-1 status in the U.S.
Summary:
In May 2025, SEVP warned F-1 students on OPT to report employer details within 15 days or risk SEVIS termination. Students exceeding 90 days of unemployment face losing visa status and possible deportation. Timely updates and coordination with DSOs are vital to remain compliant and avoid ICE enforcement actions.
