A foreign student seeking a work permit in the US must provide a valid passport, a current Form I-20 issued by their educational institution, and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). They must also submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with proof of enrollment and a job offer if applicable. Maintaining status as an F-1 or J-1 student is essential for the eligibility and approval of the work permit.
What Documents Does a Foreign Student Need for a Work Permit in the US?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) | Foreign students must present Form I-20, the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, issued by their U.S. educational institution, as a primary document when applying for a work permit. This form verifies the student's enrollment and authorized program, enabling eligibility for employment authorization through programs like Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). |
| 2 | Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) | Foreign students seeking a work permit in the US must submit Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) along with proof of their current immigration status, such as a valid Form I-20 or DS-2019, and a copy of their I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. Supporting documents also include a copy of the student's passport, visa, and two recent passport-sized photos to complete the application accurately. |
| 3 | STEM OPT Extension Request Letter | Foreign students applying for a work permit under the STEM OPT extension must submit a detailed STEM OPT extension request letter alongside Form I-765, including their employer's E-Verify identification number and a formal training plan (Form I-983) signed by both the student and employer. This request letter should clearly outline the student's STEM degree, the relevance of the employment to their field of study, and a commitment to comply with reporting requirements during the extension period. |
| 4 | Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Authorization Letter | Foreign students seeking a work permit in the US through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) must obtain a CPT Authorization Letter from their Designated School Official (DSO), which confirms the employment is integral to their academic program. This letter is essential to prove eligibility for CPT, allowing students to legally work in internships or practicum positions related to their field of study. |
| 5 | Designated School Official (DSO) Endorsement | A foreign student applying for a work permit in the US must obtain an endorsement from their Designated School Official (DSO), who verifies the student's eligibility and ensures compliance with immigration regulations. The DSO's endorsement is a crucial part of the application process, confirming that the student's employment aligns with their academic program and legal status. |
| 6 | EAD (Employment Authorization Document) Card | Foreign students in the US must obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card to work legally, which requires submitting Form I-765 along with a valid Form I-20 endorsed for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). The EAD card serves as proof of employment authorization and is essential for international students seeking off-campus work during or after their studies. |
| 7 | SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) Record Printout | Foreign students seeking a work permit in the US must provide a valid SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record printout, which confirms their current nonimmigrant status and authorization for employment. This document is essential alongside the Form I-20 and employment authorization documents, ensuring compliance with USCIS regulations. |
| 8 | F-1 Student Status Verification Letter | Foreign students applying for a work permit in the US must provide an F-1 Student Status Verification Letter, which confirms their valid enrollment and lawful F-1 status at an accredited institution. This letter is crucial for processing Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) applications with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
| 9 | Social Security Administration "No Objection" Letter | Foreign students applying for a US work permit must obtain a "No Objection" letter from the Social Security Administration, which certifies no objections to employment during their authorized stay. This document, alongside the employment authorization document (EAD) and valid visa, is essential for legally working in the United States. |
| 10 | Optional Practical Training (OPT) Recommendation Form | Foreign students applying for a work permit through Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the US must submit the OPT Recommendation Form, which is issued by their designated school official (DSO) and updates their SEVIS record to authorize practical training. This form is essential for obtaining the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS, enabling foreign students to legally work in their field of study during or after their academic program. |
Introduction to International Student Work Permits
International students in the US seeking employment must obtain a valid work permit to ensure legal authorization. Understanding the required documents is crucial for a smooth application process.
Key documents include a valid passport, Form I-20, and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if authorized. Proof of enrollment and a job offer letter are often necessary as part of the work permit application.
Understanding Work Permit Types for Students
Foreign students seeking work permits in the US must understand the types of permits available to them. The main categories include Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT), each serving different purposes and eligibility criteria.
CPT allows students to engage in work directly related to their field of study during their academic program. OPT provides an opportunity for students to work in their major area of study either before or after completing their degree.
Overview of Required Documentation
Foreign students seeking a work permit in the US must submit specific documents to comply with immigration regulations. Understanding the required paperwork ensures a smooth application process.
Key documents validate identity, legal status, and eligibility for employment authorization during studies.
- Form I-765 Application - The official form used to request employment authorization from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Valid Passport - Proof of identity and nationality required to verify the applicant's foreign status and travel documentation.
- Form I-20 or DS-2019 - Certificate of Eligibility for F-1 or J-1 visa status, confirming enrollment in a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified institution.
- I-94 Arrival/Departure Record - Evidence of lawful entry into the United States, showing the current immigration status.
- Employment Offer Letter - A letter from the employer detailing the job offer, necessary for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) applications.
- Previous Employment Authorization Documents - Copies of any prior work permits issued, demonstrating employment history and authorization continuity.
Valid Passport Requirements
A valid passport is essential for foreign students applying for a work permit in the US. Your passport must meet specific standards to be accepted during the permit application process.
- Not Expired Passport - Your passport must be current and valid throughout the duration of your intended employment in the US.
- Clear Identity Information - The passport should clearly display your full name, date of birth, and photograph to verify your identity.
- Machine-Readable Zone - A machine-readable zone at the bottom of the passport's identification page is required for efficient processing.
Student Visa (F-1, J-1, M-1) Documentation
| Document | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Student Visa (F-1, J-1, M-1) | Current visa status allowing study in the US | Proof of legal student status required for work permit application |
| Form I-20 or DS-2019 | Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status | Confirms enrollment and eligibility for employment authorization |
| Employment Authorization Document (EAD), if applicable | Official work permit issued by USCIS | Authorizes off-campus employment for eligible students |
| Job offer letter or employment verification | Written proof of employment details | Supports application for work authorization related to curricular practical training or internship |
| Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), if required | USCIS form to request work authorization | Necessary for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and some J-1 work authorizations |
| Passport with valid entry stamps | Valid travel document with proof of entry into the US | Confirms legal entry and valid status for work permit eligibility |
Form I-20 or DS-2019: Proof of Enrollment
Foreign students seeking a work permit in the US must provide proof of enrollment, primarily through Form I-20 or DS-2019. These documents confirm the student's eligibility and active status at an SEVP-certified institution.
Form I-20 is issued to F-1 visa holders, while DS-2019 is used by J-1 exchange visitors. Both forms include essential details such as personal information, program start and end dates, and school certification. Submission of these documents is crucial when applying for work authorization like Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
Employment Authorization Documents (EAD)
What documents does a foreign student need for a work permit in the US? Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) are essential for foreign students seeking work permission. You must apply for an EAD through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and provide valid identification, proof of student status, and a completed application form.
Proof of Financial Support
Foreign students applying for a work permit in the US must provide proof of financial support to demonstrate they can cover living expenses without unauthorized employment. Acceptable documents include bank statements, affidavits of support, scholarship letters, and financial aid award letters. These documents ensure the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that the student has sufficient funds to sustain themselves during their authorized work period.
Educational Transcripts and Academic Records
Foreign students seeking a work permit in the US must provide specific educational documents to validate their academic background. Educational transcripts and academic records are essential for proving eligibility and enrollment status.
- Official Transcripts - Certified copies from your institution showing courses completed and grades earned.
- Degree Certificates - Proof of the degree(s) awarded by the educational institution.
- Enrollment Verification - Documentation confirming current or past enrollment status for the duration of studies.
These documents help establish your qualifications and support your work permit application process.
What Documents Does a Foreign Student Need for a Work Permit in the US? Infographic
