In order to finance their studies and get work experience, international students with F-1 visas often look for jobs in the United States. However, the kinds of employment that F-1 visa holders may do are restricted by stringent U.S. immigration restrictions. This thorough handbook examines a range of employment options that support students’ professional advancement while adhering to visa requirements.

Comprehending Employment Regulations for F-1 Visas

F-1 students must be aware of the rules set out by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) prior to applying for jobs. Visa cancellation and deportation may follow violations of these rules. Important things to think about are:

• Limited Work Authorization: It is definitely forbidden to work without permission.
• Work Hour Restrictions: Students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during the school year and up to 40 hours during the breaks.
• Permitted Employment Categories: Only certain types of employment are available, such as STEM OPT extensions, on-campus positions, and curricular practical training (CPT) and optional practical training (OPT).

Employment on Campus

What is employment on campus?

For F-1 students, on-campus work is the most accessible. There is no need for further USCIS permission for these roles, which are accessible inside the institution. Among the examples are:

• Assistant at the library
• Assistant for research or instruction
• A cafeteria worker or the campus bookshop
• Tour guide or student ambassador
• Working as an administrative assistant in university offices

Limitations on Work and Eligibility

• Students need to be enrolled in an academic program full-time.
• During the academic period, work is restricted to 20 hours a week.
• During the official school breaks, students are permitted to work up to 40 hours a week.
• Students must get permission from their Designated School Official (DSO), but no USCIS clearance is required.

Practical Training in the Curriculum (CPT)

CPT: What is it?

F-1 students may get practical job experience that is closely relevant to their subject of study via CPT. Usually, the curriculum calls for an internship, cooperative education course, or practicum.

Important CPT Features

• must be a crucial component of the course of study.
• The DSO’s approval and an updated Form I-20 are needed.
• either full-time (more than 20 hours per week) or part-time (20 hours or less).
• Eligibility for OPT is eliminated after 12 months of full-time CPT.

Practical Training Option (OPT)

OPT: What is it?

F-1 students may get practical experience in their area of study by using the work permit that OPT grants them for a maximum of 12 months.

OPT Types

1. OPT Prior to Completion:
   • Accessible as long as the student is currently pursuing their degree.
   • When classes are in session, employees are not allowed to work more than 20 hours a week.
2. OPT After Completion:
   • Accessible upon graduation.
   • Full-time employment (40 hours a week) is possible.
   • Students must submit their applications no later than 60 days after the end of the program or 90 days before.

OPT Application Procedure

• Get a recommendation from the DSO and amend Form I-20.
• Send the Application for Employment Authorization, Form I-765, to USCIS.
• Wait for the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to be approved after paying the application cost.
• Only after obtaining the EAD card may work start.

Extension of STEM OPT

STEM OPT: What is it?

OPT may be extended by 24 months for students with degrees in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects, enabling them to work for a total of 36 months.

Qualifications for Eligibility

• Must have a degree in a STEM discipline that qualifies.
• The employer has to have an E-Verify account.
• Prior to the expiration of their normal OPT, students must apply for the extension.
• Employers are required to provide official supervision and training.

Employment in Extreme Economic Hardship

Economic Hardship Employment: What Is It?

Under the criteria for economic hardship, F-1 students who experience unforeseen financial problems may petition for special work permission.

Qualifications

• Must have been in F-1 status for at least one whole academic year.
• Must show that they are experiencing financial difficulties as a result of unanticipated events (e.g., loss of financial assistance, currency devaluation, medical bills).
• During the school year, work is restricted to 20 hours per week, and during breaks, it is full-time.
• Prior to starting work, an EAD card and USCIS permission are required.

Working for an International Organization

International Organization Employment: What Is It?

Certain foreign institutions approved by the U.S. government, including the United Nations, World Bank, or IMF, may employ F-1 students.

Procedure for Applications

• An eligible international organization must make the employment offer.
• The job must be connected to the student’s topic of study.
• need USCIS permission and a DSO recommendation.

Implications of Unauthorized Work

To keep their visa status, F-1 students must abide by all work laws. Working without authorization may lead to:

• F-1 status is immediately terminated.
• Deportation is a possibility.
• difficulty acquiring permanent residence or future U.S. visas.

Advice for F-1 Students Looking for Legal Work

• Make use of the university’s employment boards and career services.
• Make connections with classmates and instructors to find internship opportunities.
• Apply for positions in administrative offices, libraries, and research laboratories on campus.
• Make use of internet employment boards like Interstride and MyVisaJobs that are specifically tailored for foreign students.

In conclusion

Visa F-1 There are several legal work options available to students in the United States that may support them financially and provide them with experience while adhering to immigration regulations. Students should carefully consider their work opportunities to match their academic and professional aspirations, whether via on-campus positions, CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT extensions.

International students may lawfully work, get industry experience, and improve their career chances in the US by comprehending and abiding by USCIS laws.