Status
E-3: Scholars in E-3 status can only be employed by Iowa State University. Work performed at Iowa State must be related to the trade or business to which the scholar is affiliated. An Employment Authorization Document is not required.
F-1: Scholars in F-1 status, from a school other than Iowa State University, can be employed by Iowa State on the basis of either Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT). An I-20 with an authorization on page 3 is required for CPT. An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is required for OPT. The scholar may work for a second employer during CPT if authorization is granted. A scholar may work for a second employer during OPT based on the EAD.
TN: Scholars in TN status must be employed by Iowa State, but may work simultaneously for another employer if that employer sponsors an additional TN status. An Employment Authorization Document is not required.
O-1: Scholars in O-1 status can only be employed by Iowa State University, and cannot receive pay from any other employer unless that employer has had an O-1 petition approved by USCIS on behalf of the alien. An Employment Authorization Document is not required.
Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification Form)
All new international employees must complete Form I-9 with ISSO on or before their first day of work. ISSO staff assist new international employees to complete Form I-9 during Scholar Check-in. Please visit the ISSO Homepage for Scholar Check-in scheduling.
Certain documents are required in order for an I-9 to be processed. A list of documents an individual can use to complete Form I-9 can be found here (see page 9). The I-9 process begins with an electronic form accessed through the employee's inbox in Workday.
Do not work until ISSO verifies your work eligibility and your Form I-9 has been completed.
Taxes and Social Security
Navigating the income taxes rules can be challenging for scholars working in the United States. Please review the following tax information on some of the basic tax-related issues you might experience while in the United States. Read more on our Tax Information webpage.