Navigating part-time jobs in New Jersey as an international student?

I'm an international student studying in New Jersey and I'm interested in finding part-time work. What options are available to me, and are there any legal considerations or restrictions I should be aware of?

Navigating part-time jobs as an international student in the United States involves some important considerations. While you do have the opportunity to work in the U.S, there are legal restrictions associated with your student visa (F1-Visa) you must follow.

First, you're typically allowed to work on-campus up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and full-time during holidays and vacation periods. This could be a job in the university library, cafeteria, administrative offices, or relevant department. Note that on-campus jobs may be limited and competitive, so starting your search early might be beneficial.

Although off-campus employment might be preferred due to potentially higher wages or opportunities related to your major, take note that during your first academic year, you're generally not allowed to take off-campus employment. After the first academic year, off-campus employment options open up, but they typically need to be related to your field of study and approved by your designated school official and the U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Some examples include Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which allows you to take internships or cooperative education jobs during your academic program. There's also Optional Practical Training (OPT), which can be completed after you finish your degree. These roles must be directly related to your academic field.

Do bear in mind that any unauthorized work will be a violation of your visa status, so always verify the position with your college's International Student Services office or your designated school official. They can guide you through the process and assist in ensuring you maintain your visa status while gaining work experience.

Finally, always ensure you have a Social Security Number (SSN) before you begin working as it's required to track your wages for tax purposes. You may apply for an SSN once you have a job offer in hand.

Remember, part-time jobs and internships are not just about earning money; they're also about gaining practical experience and building your professional network. Choose roles that align with your long-term career goals when possible. Good luck!