Business function

Finance

Labor cost, budgeting and financial reporting affected by workforce rules.

Government changes AmendSignal has published that are classified under finance. Coverage is limited, so a change missing here does not mean nothing changed.

2 records

  • Comments due

    Proposed rule · United States · DHS · Proposed · Proposed, nothing required yet

    Department of Homeland Security proposes $70,000 and $30,000 school fees for Optional Practical Training of F-1 students

    What changed
    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposes that schools certified by its Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) pay $70,000 before recommending an F-1 student for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for the first time, and $30,000 for each later OPT recommendation. This is a proposal only.
    Who's affected
    The fees would fall on SEVP-certified schools, not employers, but DHS says schools may pass the cost to students or employers. Employers that hire F-1 students on OPT, including science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) OPT extensions, could see fewer candidates or higher costs.
    What to do
    This proposed rule creates no duties for employers now. If you rely on OPT or STEM OPT workers, consider reviewing that reliance and commenting by November 9, 2026.

  • Effective

    Final rule · United States · DHS · In effect · Action needed

    Department of Homeland Security extends the 9-11 Biometric Fee to all H-1B and L-1 extension petitions filed by covered employers

    What changed
    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a final rule, effective September 9, 2026, that requires covered employers to pay the 9-11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit Fee ($4,000 for H-1B, $4,500 for L-1) on every extension of status petition, including extensions for a worker staying with the same employer. Before this rule, covered employers paid the fee only on new employment and change of employer petitions.
    Who's affected
    Only employers with 50 or more employees in the United States where more than 50 percent of those employees, counted in the aggregate, hold H-1B, L-1A or L-1B status. Employers that do not meet this test do not pay the fee.
    What to do
    If you are a covered employer, the changed duty is to include the fee with H-1B and L-1 extension petitions, including same-employer extensions, once the rule takes effect on September 9, 2026 (DHS says it will not apply to past or pending petitions). Amended petitions that do not seek an extension stay exempt, and the fee applies to petitions filed on or before September 30, 2027.