Savanna Hoffman
International students can work part-time on a student visa, but they may not always need a Social Security Number (SSN) to do so. The SSN is used by the US government for tax and employment reporting purposes, and individuals are required to apply for one if they have been granted legal authorization to work and are working. International students can apply for an SSN, but they must have employment authorization or a job offer/employment eligibility. They will also need to provide valid immigration documents, including a valid passport, and may need to complete Form SS-5 FS. If they are not eligible for an SSN, they can apply for an ITIN, which is used for tax filing purposes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Need for SSN | Required for tax and employment reporting purposes, opening bank accounts, and building credit history |
| Eligibility for SSN | Must have employment authorization and proof of a job offer/eligibility; F-1 and J-1 students may apply with valid immigration documents and evidence of employment |
| Application Process | Submit Form SS-5 or SS-5 FS online or at local Social Security office with required documents |
| Timeframe | Typically receive SSN within 4-6 weeks, but processing times vary |
| Alternatives to SSN | ITIN for tax filing purposes; credit cards that don't require SSN, such as Zolve and Deserve Edu Mastercard |
| Work Options without SSN | On-campus jobs, cash-only gigs, online reselling, dog sitting/walking, off-campus jobs in restaurants serving food from your country |
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Working on campus
International students with an F-1 visa are permitted to work in the US, but their employment options are restricted. F-1 students are typically only authorized to work on their school campus and must not displace a US citizen or permanent resident in doing so. On-campus jobs can include roles such as teaching or research assistant, or work in the university library, dining facilities, laboratories, and administrative offices. International students can also work for on-location commercial firms that provide services for students on campus, or at off-campus locations that are directly affiliated with the school.
Students on an F-1 visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and up to 40 hours per week during academic breaks. To apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), F-1 students must provide evidence of lawful employment, such as a letter from their college or university department confirming that they have been offered an on-campus job. This letter must be printed on department letterhead, signed by the hiring department, and include the job title. This letter is then presented to the Social Security Administration (SSA) as evidence of authorized employment.
It is important to note that you can start working without an SSN, but you must apply and obtain an SSN within 30 days of starting your job. You can submit the receipt of your SSN application to HR and be good to go.
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Cash-only gigs
International students in the US can work without an SSN, but they must apply for one within 90 days of starting a job. An F-1 or M-1 visa is required to apply for an SSN, and students must have a job lined up, even if it is part-time or on campus.
On-campus jobs
On-campus jobs are one of the most sought-after options for international students. Depending on the state, this could be the only type of work legally available to them. US campuses function like small towns, with various jobs available, including working in computer centres, cafeterias, shops, and students' unions. Some on-campus jobs may even be remote or partially remote, such as working as a social media coordinator for the school's career centre.
Freelancing
Freelancing is a great option for international students on student visas, as long as they keep a detailed record of all jobs. Examples of freelance work include graphic design, writing articles, and consulting. Students can work for companies outside the US and must ensure their work is related to their field of study.
Remote internships
International students can do remote internships with proper work authorization through the OPT or CPT programs. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of work authorization that allows F-1 international students to participate in paid and unpaid internships during their degree program for academic credit. Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows international students to work either before or after graduation in a job that's related to their major.
Restaurants and cafes
Busy restaurants and cafes around college campuses often look for help. There are various positions available, such as kitchen staff, bar staff, and waiters. While strong English-language skills may be required to earn enough tips, formal qualifications are usually not needed.
Labour work
Students can also take on labour-intensive cash-only gigs, such as helping people move, mowing lawns, or blowing snow.
Online marketplaces
International students can also buy and sell items on online marketplaces such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, auctions, and yard sales.
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Flipping merch online
International students can work without an SSN, but they must apply for one within 90 days of starting a job. A student visa allows individuals to work up to 20 hours a week during school terms and full-time when school is not in session. On-campus jobs are a good place to start, as they are often convenient and accessible.
Flipping merchandise online is a legitimate way to make money. It involves buying an item at a low price and selling it for a higher price elsewhere. Here are some steps to get you started on flipping merch online:
Finding Items to Flip
- Thrift stores and garage sales: Thrift stores are great for finding a variety of cheap items. Look for thrift stores in affluent areas to increase your chances of finding valuable brand-name items.
- Online marketplaces: Search for products on sites like eBay to get an idea of their market value. This will help you determine if an item is worth buying and flipping.
- New, limited edition, high-demand, and fluctuating-price items: Keep an eye out for items that are new and generating a lot of buzz, as you can resell them at a higher price once they become hard to find. Limited edition items, if bought early, can also be resold at a premium when they go out of stock. High-demand products will naturally increase in price over time, so buying early can lead to greater profits. Items with fluctuating prices throughout the year should be bought when low and sold when high.
- Niche and hobby-related items: When starting, it's good to focus on a specific category of items to develop expertise in recognizing their value. Selling items related to your hobbies or interests can be advantageous, as you are more familiar with their worth and resale value.
Selling Items
- Online platforms: Popular platforms for reselling items include eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Amazon.
- Marketing and referrals: Marketing is essential when flipping merchandise. Asking for referrals from buyers can help expand your customer base, as personal recommendations are powerful.
- Reinvesting profits: Consider reinvesting a portion of your profits back into buying new items to sell. This will help grow your business and potentially increase your profits over time.
Remember to treat flipping merchandise as a serious job by creating and sticking to a regular schedule for finding and listing items. With dedication and a good eye for valuable items, flipping merch online can be a successful way to earn money as an international student.
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Dog walking
As an international student, you can take on part-time work without an SSN, as long as you have a visa. A student visa allows you to work for up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during breaks. Dog walking is a great way to earn some extra cash and can even become a lucrative career for those with a passion for pooches.
Getting Started as a Dog Walker
Using Apps to Find Work
There are also several apps that can help you find dog-walking jobs, such as Wag!, Rover, Fetch!, Care.com, and PetBacker. These apps usually require a background check and some form of identification, but they provide a convenient way to connect with clients. However, be aware that some apps, like Wag!, charge a significant commission fee of around 40%, and you may need to pay an application fee.
Building a Business
If you're dedicated and patient, dog walking can even become a full-time career. Ryan Stewart, a New York-based dog walker, earns over $100,000 a year. He started his business, Ryan for Dogs, in 2002, and now walks three to five dogs at a time, charging around $60 per hour. Stewart notes that New York is a good market for dog walkers due to the long working hours of many dog owners.
Additional Tips
To succeed in dog walking, it's essential to have patience, fitness, and knowledge about dog care. It's also important to use your own equipment, such as leashes and collars, to maintain control and ensure the safety of the dogs in your care.
So, if you're an international student looking to earn some money without an SSN, dog walking is a fun and rewarding option. You can start small and build your reputation, or dive into the world of dog-walking apps to find clients. With dedication and a love for dogs, you might even turn this side hustle into a full-time venture.
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Apply for an ITIN
International students can work without an SSN, but they must apply for one within 90 days of starting a job. If you are unable to get an SSN, you can apply for an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). An ITIN is a 9-digit number issued by the IRS to those filing tax returns who are not US citizens and do not have an SSN.
To apply for an ITIN, you must complete Form W-7, Application for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. You can apply by mail or in person. You can also apply for free at a Taxpayer Assistance Center in the US. You will need to bring your supporting documents and those of any family members who are applying. It can take 7 weeks to hear back about your application, and 9-11 weeks if it's tax season or if you applied from overseas.
If your application is rejected, you will be notified and your supporting documents will be returned to you within 60 days. If your ITIN expires, you must renew it either in person, by mail, or by submitting Form W-7 with your tax return.
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Frequently asked questions
International students can take on part-time jobs on campus, such as front desk jobs in dorms, or cash-only gigs like helping people move or doing labor work. They can also flip merch on eBay, Facebook, or Craigslist. Additionally, dog-walking or recycling are good ways to earn some extra cash.
A Social Security Number (SSN) is a number used by the US government for tax and employment reporting purposes. It is required for individuals who are employed and/or have tax reporting requirements. While it is often used for other purposes, such as opening bank accounts, having an SSN does not grant legal authorization to work in the US.
To apply for an SSN as an international student, you must first obtain valid employment authorization. You can then gather the relevant documentation, such as a valid passport, and complete the application for a Social Security card. Finally, visit your local Social Security office to file your application.
Many credit card issuers offer options for international students that do not require an SSN, such as Zolve and Deserve Edu Mastercard. These cards can help international students build a credit history, manage expenses, and earn rewards. Additionally, international students who are not eligible for an SSN may need to apply for an ITIN for tax filing purposes.
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