Types of Work Authorization for F-1 Students

International students in the U.S. (F-1 visa holders) may be allowed to work under certain conditions and can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) if they are eligible to work. Below are the main types of work permits available to F-1 students and how each relates to the SSN.

Using your work authorization and SSN properly and in compliance with immigration laws is extremely important for all international students.

✅ Types of Work Authorization for F-1 Students

There are five types of work permits that F-1 students can apply for to legally work and earn income in the U.S.:

1. On-Campus Employment

Description: Working within the school campus (e.g., library, cafeteria, lab, etc.)

Requirements:
👉 Must maintain valid F-1 visa status
👉 No USCIS approval required
👉 Up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions

SSN: You may apply for an SSN if you have an on-campus job offer.

2. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Description: Internship or practical training directly related to your major (can be paid or unpaid).

Requirements:
👉 Must complete at least one full academic year before applying
👉 CPT must be part of your program (required or elective in the curriculum)
👉 Must be authorized by your school and issued on a new I-20

USCIS approval required: ❌ No (school authorization only)
SSN: You may apply for an SSN if you have a CPT-approved job offer.

3. Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Description: Work experience in your field of study, either before or after graduation.

Requirements:
👉 Maximum of 12 months per degree level (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate)
👉 Must apply to USCIS for approval (processing may take several months)

Work Permit (EAD): ✅ Yes — Employment Authorization Document required
SSN: You may apply for an SSN when submitting your OPT application or after receiving your EAD.

4. STEM OPT Extension

Description: A 24-month extension of OPT for students in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).

Requirements:
👉 Must currently be on active OPT
👉 Must work for an employer enrolled in E-Verify

New EAD: ✅ Yes
SSN: Continue using your existing SSN (no new number issued)

5. Severe Economic Hardship Employment

Description: Allows off-campus employment for students facing serious financial hardship beyond their control (e.g., loss of sponsor due to war, natural disaster, etc.)

Requirements:
👉 Must have completed at least one full academic year
👉 Must apply to USCIS for approval

EAD: ✅ Yes
SSN: You may apply for an SSN once you receive your EAD.

🆔 Social Security Number (SSN)

An SSN is issued to F-1 students only if one of the following applies:

👉 You have a valid job offer (on-campus, CPT, OPT, or economic hardship)
👉 SSN is not issued solely for purposes like opening a bank account or renting a home if you are not working.

Documents required for SSN application:

• Passport and F-1 visa

• Form I-20

• Job offer letter from the school or employer

• Form SS-5 (SSN application form)

• Employment Authorization Document (EAD), if applicable

⚖️ Important Notes

Understand and use your work permit (EAD) and SSN correctly to avoid violating U.S. immigration laws.

✅ Tips for F-1 Students

• Learn about different types of work authorization to legally work while studying in the U.S.

• Apply for the appropriate work permit only when you are eligible.

• The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the agency that approves your work authorization.

• Always use your work permit according to regulations to stay compliant with U.S. immigration laws.