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F-1 ECONOMIC HARDSHIP EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION

What is Economic Hardship Employment Authorization?

Economic Hardship employment authorization is employment available to F-1 students who due to unforeseen circumstances are unable to meet all of their financial obligations.

Am I Eligible?

In order to qualify for Economic Hardship work authorization you must meet the following criteria:

  • You must be able to maintain full-time enrollment at RBHS while authorized for economic hardship employment
  • You must have been enrolled full-time at RBHS for at least one academic year
  • You must have a valid I-20 form and an active SEVIS record
  • You must demonstrate that the economic hardship is due to circumstances entirely beyond your control. Unforeseen circumstances include, but are not limited to, fluctuations in your home country's currency; unexpected loss of employment by your sponsor; unforeseen expenses incurred by yourself or your sponsor
  • The employment authorization is not limited to your program of studies

Limitations

  • Economic Hardship employment is limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session. Full-time employment is permissible during official breaks
  • You must have received the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) prior to commencing employment
  • The employment authorization is not limited to your field of studies
  • The employment must cease on the expiration date indicated on the EAD

Procedures

Students wishing to apply for Economic Hardship work permission must submit the following documentation to the OIS: (PLEASE DO NOT STAPLE YOUR APPLICATION MATERIALS)

  • Form G-1145
  • Letter from the student explaining the circumstances that make it necessary to apply for employment authorization
    Supporting documentation demonstrating the need for employment authorization
  • Form I-765
  • Copies of current I-20 form (pgs 1&2 on new form)
  • Photocopy of all previously issued I-20 forms (pgs 1&3 on old form, pgs 1&2 on new form)
  • Photocopy of biodata page in passport, I-94 card (front and back) and most recent visa
  • Two "passport style" photos.
  • Check or money order in the amount of $410.00 payable to the United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS)

Once you have completed all the appropriate forms, you must make an appointment with a Designated School Official at the OIS and submit the documentation.

Special Notes

  • USCIS' normal processing time is 90 days from the date your application is receipted
  • It is your responsibility to demonstrate that your financial difficulties were unforeseen and beyond your control
  • Under no circumstance should you begin employment prior to receiving authorization from the USCIS
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