EMPLOYMENT OPTIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

With the beginning of the new academic year, ISS would like to take this opportunity to remind students about work regulations.

On-campus Work

International students with F-1 visas may work on-campus for 20 hours a week or less during the school year. They may work 21 hours a week or more during vacation periods. J-1 students are subject to the same regulations regarding the hours worked, but additionally need a letter from ISS authorizing on-campus work. Generally, work is considered to be on-campus when paid by the UW-Madison payroll office for such employment. If you have concerns about whether or not a job opportunity is considered on-campus, please consult ISS.

Off-campus Work

Off-campus work is not permitted unless permission is obtained through ISS. This means international students may not work on behalf of a business and be paid by that company without applying for authorization. F-1 students can refer to http://iss.wisc.edu/f1status.html for information on Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT). J-1 students can refer to http://iss.wisc.edu/j1employment.html for information on Academic Training.

Illegal or unauthorized employment makes you illegally present in the US and has serious consequences.

• Make sure that any employment you plan to engage in is legal. Running your own sales business through companies such as Amway and Southwestern/Great American, Inc. is not an option for international students.
• Ensure that you have the necessary employment authorization before you begin any work. Starting to work without prior authorization, even if you receive authorization later, still constitutes illegal employment.

As always, please consult with ISS before commencing employment.