The F1 Visa is not issued alongside a work permit. Thus, F1 visa holders are not legally authorized to gain employment while in the USA. 

Should an international student seek employment there are procedures in place to that effect. A student must first of all obtain a Social Security Number (SSN). Get in touch with your Designated School Official (DSO) on the specifics of an SSN application.

There are four employment categories that International Students on an F1 Visa can leverage on Find them below

1. Optional Practical Training (OPY)

OPT is temporary employment relating to field of study of the F1 visa holder. Students eligible for OPT are allowed to work for at least 12 months under this scheme. Prior to the completion of their academic coursework, a student may work for no more than 20 hours a week under this scheme. The limit is increased to 40 hours a week after graduation. OPT applications can only be endorsed following approval from the DSO.

2. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT is intoned to offer students practical experience in the form of internships. This can be in the form of a full time employment without any weekly working limits. Graduate students automatically qualify for CPT while under graduates must have completed one full academic tear before becoming eligible. 

3. On Campus Employment 

This is the most widely utilized form of employment by International students. F1 visa holders may be allowed to work under the auspices of their institution for up to 20 hours a week. These paid jobs may be in the form of services rendered as Research or Teaching Assistants as well as roles in the library, cafeteria, dormitory, etc. 

During the summer period, students may be permitted to work up to 40 hours a week. 

4. Off Campus Employment 

Off Campus employment is not available to all students.

This is usually exclusive to students that fall under the economic hardship category or an emergent circumstance.