Hiring International Students

Information for Employers

• Tax Information for Employers of Foreign Students
• Internal Revenue Service
• Social Security Responsibilityes When Hiring a Foreign National

Most Non-immigrant (foreign) students at The University of Iowa are eligible for U.S. work authorization in their major field prior to completing studies. Documentation and proof of work authorization are issued through the Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS) and comply with all U.S. federal rules and regulations.

Work authorization is issued to the student for the dates of employment requested. Any individual must complete an I-9 within three days of beginning employment and authorization will be issued to the student prior to beginning work. Therefore, no additional effort is required by the employer.

It is certainly legal for any employer to choose not to hire foreign nationals, as long as the employer NEVER hires foreign nationals. However, most employers are unaware of the simplicity and benefits of hiring these highly qualified students and graduates. Foreign students bring to any organization new paradigms of thinking, strong work ethics, cultural and ethnic diversity, adaptability, multiple languages and a broad range of communication skills.

Myths About Employing Foreign National Students

International students can't be hired without a green card: False!

A green card is an informal term for Permanent Residency. Hundreds of thousands of non-immigrant employees legally work in the US every year. For most students at The University of Iowa, the OISS can pre-screen an applicant to ensure that work permission can be granted. International students are not Permanent Residents and they don't need to be.

It will cost too much time and money: False!

The only cost to the employer hiring a foreign student enrolled at The University of Iowa is the time and effort to interview and select the best candidate for the job. Most foreign students at The University of Iowa are eligible to accept employment in their field of study.

For an employer, there is no paperwork, no hassle, no special advertising, no documentation about other candidates; just the offer of employment.

There is usually no delay in granting the work authorization, no fees, no lines, no attorneys, just routine. In fact, hiring a foreign student will save your company money! These employees are usually exempt from Social Security tax and withholding.

A foreign student can't work after they graduate: False!

Almost all students on F-1 or J-1 status are eligible for employment while in school and after finishing studies. Initial authorization is usually granted from one to one and one-half years. Again, this employment authorization is issued through the school or sponsoring agency, not directly by the US government. Other than a formal offer of employment, there are no forms, fees, legal hoops, or requirements for the employer.