International students applying for a work permit in the US must submit a valid Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document) along with their Form I-765 application. Essential documents include a current Form I-20 endorsed for employment by the Designated School Official, a copy of the student's passport, visa, and Form I-94, as well as proof of enrollment and a recent passport-sized photograph. It is important to provide any additional supporting evidence specified by USCIS to ensure a smooth processing of the work permit application.
What Documents are Needed for a Work Permit for International Students in the US?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-20 Form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) | The I-20 Form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) is essential for international students applying for a work permit in the US, as it verifies their full-time enrollment in a SEVP-certified institution. Along with the I-20, students must submit Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). |
| 2 | STEM OPT Extension Request Form | The STEM OPT Extension Request Form requires international students in the US to submit Form I-765 along with a valid I-20 endorsed by the designated school official (DSO) confirming the student's STEM degree and employer information. Supporting documents must include a copy of the STEM degree transcript, passport, visa, and an E-Verify employer information sheet for the work permit application. |
| 3 | Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Application – Form I-765 | International students seeking a work permit in the US must submit Form I-765, the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application, along with proof of their current immigration status, passport copy, two passport-sized photos, and the filing fee. Supporting documents such as the I-20 form endorsed for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and a copy of the previous EAD, if applicable, are essential for processing the application. |
| 4 | Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Approval Letter | A Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Approval Letter is a crucial document required for international students in the US seeking a work permit under CPT, verifying that the practical training is integral to their academic curriculum. This letter, issued by the designated school official (DSO), must specify the employer, employment dates, and confirm the training aligns with the student's major and academic program. |
| 5 | Designated School Official (DSO) Endorsement on SEVIS | A valid Form I-20 endorsed by the Designated School Official (DSO) in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is required for a work permit application for international students in the US. The DSO endorsement confirms student status and eligibility, serving as a crucial document alongside the employment authorization request. |
| 6 | Social Security Number (SSN) Eligibility Letter | International students applying for a work permit in the US must provide a Social Security Number (SSN) eligibility letter issued by the Designated School Official (DSO), confirming authorization for employment under Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). This SSN eligibility letter, along with Form I-20, valid passport, and the Employment Authorization Document (EAD), is essential for completing the Social Security Number application process. |
| 7 | Proof of Full-Time Enrollment Status | Proof of full-time enrollment status for a work permit application in the US requires an official letter or enrollment verification from the international student's educational institution, confirming active registration in a full-time academic program. This document ensures eligibility for employment under student visa regulations by demonstrating continuous academic engagement. |
| 8 | Optional Practical Training (OPT) Recommendation Letter | A critical document for obtaining a work permit through Optional Practical Training (OPT) is the OPT recommendation letter, issued by the designated school official (DSO) on Form I-20, confirming eligibility and authorization for practical training. This letter must detail the student's academic program, employment period, and alignment with their major field of study to satisfy U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements. |
| 9 | Recent I-94 Arrival/Departure Record | Recent I-94 Arrival/Departure Record is essential for a work permit application as it verifies the international student's lawful entry and current immigration status in the US. This document must be the most recent version, obtained electronically from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website, to ensure eligibility for employment authorization. |
| 10 | Updated Financial Support Statements | Updated financial support statements for a work permit application by international students in the US must include official bank statements, sponsor letters with specified amounts, and proof of available funds covering tuition and living expenses. These documents ensure compliance with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) financial requirements for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) permits. |
Introduction to Work Permits for International Students
International students in the United States often require a work permit to engage in employment during their studies. Understanding the necessary documents for obtaining this permit is crucial to ensure a smooth application process.
Key documents typically include a valid passport, Form I-20 issued by the educational institution, and a completed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Proof of enrollment and a valid visa status, such as F-1 or J-1, are also essential. These documents verify eligibility and support the application for a work permit under programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
Eligibility Criteria for Work Permits
International students seeking a work permit in the US must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify. Proper documentation is essential to demonstrate compliance with these requirements and maintain legal status.
- Valid F-1 Student Visa - Students must hold an active F-1 visa status to apply for work authorization within the United States.
- Enrollment in SEVP-Certified Institution - Eligibility requires current enrollment in an institution certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Application - Submission of Form I-765 along with supporting documents is necessary to obtain approval for on-campus or Optional Practical Training (OPT) work permits.
Types of Work Permits Available
What types of work permits are available for international students in the US? International students can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which allow work related to their field of study. These permits require specific documentation including your I-20 form, passport, and a completed Form I-765 for OPT.
Essential Documents Required for Application
International students seeking a work permit in the US must prepare specific documents to ensure a successful application. Understanding the essential paperwork helps streamline the process and meet legal requirements.
- Valid Form I-20 - This document from the educational institution confirms the student's eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD) - Issued by USCIS, this card authorizes the student to work legally in the United States during the permitted period.
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization - Completed and submitted to USCIS to request the work permit, including supporting documents and applicable fees.
Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization
International students in the US seeking work authorization must submit Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization. This form is essential to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), allowing legal employment during their studies or Optional Practical Training (OPT) period.
Required documents include a copy of the student's Form I-20, a valid passport, and a recent passport-style photo. Proof of current immigration status, such as an I-94 arrival/departure record, and the appropriate filing fee are also necessary for the application.
Proof of Student Status and Enrollment
International students applying for a work permit in the US must provide proof of student status and enrollment to confirm eligibility. This typically includes a valid Form I-20 issued by the student's educational institution and a recent transcript or enrollment verification letter. These documents demonstrate active enrollment and compliance with visa requirements essential for work authorization.
Valid Passport and Visa Copy Requirements
International students applying for a work permit in the US must provide a valid passport to verify their identity and nationality. The passport should be current and not expire during the period of employment.
A visa copy is essential to confirm the student's legal status in the United States. This document must reflect an active student visa, such as the F-1 or M-1, to qualify for work authorization.
Financial Support and Funding Documentation
Financial support and funding documentation are essential when applying for a work permit as an international student in the US. You must provide proof of sufficient financial resources, such as bank statements, scholarship letters, or affidavits of support. These documents demonstrate your ability to cover living expenses without relying on unauthorized employment.
Submission Process and Important Deadlines
| Document | Details | Submission Process | Important Deadlines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) | Official USCIS form required to apply for work authorization in the US. | Submit online via USCIS website or mail a paper application to the designated Service Center. | Apply 90 days before the desired employment start date but not earlier than 120 days before the completion of the academic program. |
| Copy of Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) | Issued by the student's SEVP-certified school, indicating eligibility for work. | Include signed and dated copy with the I-765 submission. | Must be current and accurately reflect the student's status at the time of application. |
| Passport Copy | Valid passport identification pages to verify identity and legal presence. | Attach clear scanned copies with application. | Passport must be valid at the time of application and throughout employment authorization period. |
| Visa Copy | Proof of valid F-1 visa status. | Include copy of current visa page with the application package. | Visa should be valid at submission; expired visas may delay processing. |
| Previous Employment Authorization Documents (if applicable) | Copies of any earlier Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). | Submit with new I-765 to avoid processing delays. | Include if reapplying or renewing work permit before expiration. |
| Two Passport-Sized Photos | Recent photos meeting USCIS specifications. | Attach photos as per USCIS guidelines. | Photos should be taken within 30 days prior to submission. |
| Filing Fee | Required payment for application processing, amount specified by USCIS. | Pay online or include a check/money order if mailing application. | Fee amount and payment method must comply with current USCIS requirements. |
| Submission Deadline for Optional Practical Training (OPT) | Specific timeframe to apply for OPT work authorization after program completion. | Submit I-765 within 30 days of Designated School Official (DSO) OPT recommendation on the I-20. | Application must be filed no earlier than 90 days before and no later than 60 days after the program end date. |
| Submission Deadline for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) | Application timing linked to academic term and CPT authorization by school. | Coordinate submission with school's international office for proper CPT approval. | Apply before the start of CPT employment; CPT cannot be authorized retroactively. |
What Documents are Needed for a Work Permit for International Students in the US? Infographic
