Not only is it difficult for the student to juggle his/her coursework as well as working, it may also have a major impact on your social life. The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) do prefer the student to have the full financial resources before they reach the U.S. However they do accept that often an extra income is required.

For this reason there are strict guidelines set for international students taking employment. Unfortunately with the present economic climate in the United States and with general unemployment quite high the authorities like to give first priority to the people who are immigrants to the United States. However, it is still perfectly possible and acceptable for you to gain a part-time job.

For the convenience and its familiarity many international students tend to work on campus. If you are of F-1 status you are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week on campus. If you decide to work off campus you may need INS employment authorization. For this you will need your I-20 form to prove that you are of F-1 status and are eligible to work. On completion of your degree an F-1 visa holder who wants to seek additional employment in the United States may apply for H-1B status which is for temporary employment in an occupation that is specialised and requires the minimum qualification of a bachelor degree. If accepted the student may stay in the U.S. on H -1B status for up to six years.

For J-1 visa status employment is severely restricted. Any on-campus employment must be authorized by the institution that is sponsoring you. You may also have tight restrictions on returning home straight after your studies dependant on your contract. M-1 visa holders are students who are in vocational and technical training programmes. Practical training is the only employment allowed for M-1 visa holders. Your International Officer may have to prove that employment in this specific area is not available in your own country.

It is important to note that if you are not of F-1 status there may be severe problems in gaining access into employment in the United States so it is important that you have the sufficient funds before you arrive.

article:
United States Immigration
Service Centre
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