Work Authorization for F-1 Students Due to Severe Economic Hardship Caused by Unforeseen Circumstances

With the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reminds international studies in the US on F-1 student visas who are experiencing unforeseen economic hardship beyond their control may request employment authorization to work off-campus.

The students would need to meet certain regulatory requirements. See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9).

According to USCIS, examples of unforeseen circumstances include (but are not limited to):
* Loss of financial aid or on-campus employment (through no fault of your own);
* Substantial fluctuations in currency value or exchange rate;
* Inordinate increases in tuition or living costs;
* Unexpected changes in the financial condition of your source of support;
* Medical bills; and
* Other substantial and unexpected expenses.

To apply, you must submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, a copy of your Form I-20, Certificate for Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status and other supporting materials to USCIS.

“Your Form I-20 must include the employment page completed by your Designated School Official, certifying your eligibility for off-campus employment due to severe economic hardship caused by unforeseen circumstances beyond your control,” says USCIS.

Those with approved work permits “may be able to work off-campus in one-year intervals up to the expected date of completion of your current course of study,” says USCIS.

Read more about USCIS Special Situations.