Ask Our Lawyers For Legal Advice
Who is eligible to apply for a Social Security Number?
F-1 students with a job offer letter and/or work permissionJ-1 students with a job offer and work permission from their DS-2019 sponsorJ-1 visiting scholarsJ-2 dependents with work permission from USCIS (EAD)Individuals with other types of nonimmigra...
What is a Social Security Card?
A Social Security card is required for anyone working in the U.S., including non-immigrants. It contains a unique Social Security Number (SSN) that you keep for life. You will need the number for many purposes in the U.S. including employment a...
How to apply for an off-campus work permit because of severe economic hardship?
The student must request a recommendation from the DSO for off-campus employment. The DSO must complete such certification in SEVIS. The DSO may recommend the student for work off-campus for one-year intervals by certifying that:The student has been...
If I have a severe economic hardship during my education, Can I work off campus?
Yes. If an F-1 student cannot find other jobs or they are insufficient, they can ask for permission to work off-campus due to serious money problems that they did not expect and cannot control. This could include losing financial aid or on-campus job...
I have my SSN I got it during my CPT. Do I need to apply again, or Can I use the SSN when I am working for OPT?
No, you do not need to apply for a new Social Security Number (SSN). You can use the SSN you obtained during your CPT while working for OPT.
Can I apply an SSN while I am doing my CPT?
Yes, you can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) while you are doing your Curricular Practical Training (CPT).Please note that before applying for an SSN, you must have your CPT authorization. This authorization will be documented on your Form I...
Can I open my own business under CPT?
Opening your own business under Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is generally not permitted. CPT is designed to provide practical training opportunities that are directly related to your field of study and are an integral part of your curriculum,...
Can I open my work business under OPT STEM extension?
In order to qualify for a STEM, OPT extension, the start-up entity must be an employer in good standing with E-Verify, sign a training plan (F-1 students may not provide employer attestations), and have the resources to comply with the proposed train...
Can I work for my own business under OPT?
You may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) as an F-1 student in the United States if you plan to start a business related to your major area of study. However, students in English language training programs are not eligible for OPT. Ad...
Can I start working after my OPT work authorization approval but before I receive the EAD Card?
No, you cannot start working until you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. Even if you have received a notice of approval for your Optional Practical Training (OPT), you must wait until you physically receive the EAD card befor...
Asking Question Pro Tips
Browse our frequently asked questions, and if you don't find the information you need, feel free to add a question. We'll connect you with an immigration lawyer within two business days to address your specific questions.
Cookie Notice