Q&A

Can F-1 students work abroad?

Can F-1 students work abroad?

International students in the U.S. in valid F1 immigration status are permitted to work off-campus in optional practical training (OPT) status both during and after completion of their degree. You do not need to have a job offer to apply for your OPT EAD, and your OPT employment can occur anywhere in the US.

What does it mean to be an F-1 student?

Your admission to the U.S. is for “duration of status,” meaning the length of your F-1 status. F-1 status covers the period when: You are a full-time registered student making normal progress toward your degree, Plus an optional period of practical training following completion of studies (if you apply for OPT)

Can a F1 student work part time in the US?

However, all F1 students are allowed to work part-time on-campus. All you have to do is complete an I-9 form with your International Office. While in the US you could run into law enforcement. You’ll need to carry your passport and I-94 card with you to prove your legal F1 visa status.

How to maintain your F-1 student visa status?

Graduate programs each define their own combination of credit hours with research time to be considered “full-time.” To remain in legal F-1 visa status, you should check with your program to ensure that you are maintaining full-time enrollment if you are a graduate student.

What happens if I work off campus on my F1 visa?

Working off-campus without prior approval from your international student office and the Department of Homeland Security is a serious violation of your F1 visa regulations and it could result in deportation. However, all F1 students are allowed to work part-time on-campus. All you have to do is complete an I-9 form with your International Office.

Your admission to the U.S. is for “duration of status,” meaning the length of your F-1 status. F-1 status covers the period when: You are a full-time registered student making normal progress toward your degree, Plus an optional period of practical training following completion of studies (if you apply for OPT)

What do you need to know about the F-1 visa?

F-1 Student Visa. The F-1 Visa (Academic Student) allows you to enter the United States as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, seminary, conservatory, academic high school, elementary school, or other academic institution or in a language training program. You must be enrolled in a program or course

When is off campus employment available for F-1 students?

Regulation that defines off-campus employment for F-1 students is in 8 CFR 214.2 (f) (9) (ii). Generally, it is employment that is for economic need and does not necessarily have to relate to the student’s academic course of study. When is off-campus employment available?

Can a F-1 student work for a construction company?

For example, an F-1 student cannot work for a construction company, even if the job site is on the campus. However, an F-1 student may work for a contractually affiliated company such as a school bookstore, because it provides services to students.