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What is F-1 Employment with an International Organization?
You may be eligible to apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for employment authorization for an internship with a recognized international organization within the meaning of the International Organizations Immunities Act [59 Stat. 669], such as the United Nations or the World Bank. Not all organizations that operate internationally qualify for this benefit.
You may not begin employment until USCIS approves your application and you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
Eligibility
To be eligible for F-1 employment authorization for an internship with an international organization:
Before You Apply
Before requesting an ISSO recommendation, your employer must provide written documentation as a qualifying recognized international organization confirming the proposed employment and certifying that it is within the scope of the organization’s sponsorship.
ISSO will recommend your employment in your SEVIS record and email your digital I-20 when it has been processed. You must then apply to USCIS for authorization which results in an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). ISSO does not authorize this employment; USCIS must approve your application and issue the EAD card before you begin working.
Employment authorization under this classification is NOT deducted from your Optional Practical Training. Authorization cannot exceed one year.
If your position is unpaid, confirm with the organization if they require employment authorization refer to ISSO’s guidance on unpaid internships.
Application Process
Application Process
Obtain Documentation from the International Organization
Obtain a letter from the recognized international organization on the organization's letterhead confirming your offer of employment and certifying that the proposed employment is within the scope of the organization’s sponsorship.
The letter must contain the following:
- employment start and end date
- detailed job description or list of job duties
- number of hours per week (not to exceed 20 hours during required academic terms)
- U.S. address of your employer
Submit Your Request to ISSO
You will need to submit the following to [email protected]:
your above letter from the iInternational oOrganization
If eligible, ISSO will update your SEVIS record and issue you a new Form I-20 reflecting the recommendation for employment with an international organization.
Apply to USCIS
After receiving your updated I-20, then apply to USCIS for employment authorization by submitting Form I-765 under eligibility category (c)(3)(ii).
Follow the current USCIS Form I-765 instructions for the filing procedure, required supporting documents, and filing fee. Note that expedited Premium Processing may not be available.
After You Apply
USCIS will adjudicate your I-765 application for employment with your international organization. Follow USCIS guidelines for tracking EAD card delivery. Monitor your application status via your USCIS account and sign up for USPS informed delivery to track the delivery of your documents.
Make a copy (front and back of your EAD card) for your records and email a copy to [email protected]. You may need this EAD card/proof of USCIS authorization for future immigration or visa applications.
Be aware of your timeline. You may not begin employment until USCIS has approved your application and your EAD is valid for employment.