Working as a freelancer on Upwork (international student on a F-1 Visa)

[franfonse8]

Hi guys,

I'm an international student on an F1 Visa. I'm currently, of course, enrolled as a full-time student at college in the US.

This type of Visa does not allow an international student to work outside of campus; only through an authorization to take advantage of the OPT or CPT opportunities. Inside of campus, yes, but with authorization and only part-time during classes and full-time during breaks.

Am I allowed to work through Upwork as a freelancer?

I find the descriptions about working in the US a little bit vague, by the Department of Homeland Security, and open to ambiguity.

Thanks and be well.

[jr-translation]

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Francisco F wrote:

Hi guys,

I'm an international student on an F1 Visa. I'm currently, of course, enrolled as a full-time student at college in the US.

This type of Visa does not allow an international student to work outside of campus; only through an authorization to take advantage of the OPT or CPT opportunities. Inside of campus, yes, but with authorization and only part-time during classes and full-time during breaks.

Am I allowed to work through Upwork as a freelancer?

I find the descriptions about working in the US a little bit vague, by the Department of Homeland Security, and open to ambiguity.

Thanks and be well.

---

I think you already have your answer:

This type of Visa does not allow an international student to work outside of campus; only through an authorization to take advantage of the OPT or CPT opportunities. Inside of campus, yes, but with authorization and only part-time during classes and full-time during breaks.

[franfonse8]

What if I work as a freelancer through Upwork on the library of the school?

[feed_my_eyes · Accepted solution]

Working "on campus" means for an employer who's located on campus, not just that you're in the campus library. I wouldn't risk it unless you want to get your visa revoked and potentially be deported and not allowed back into the U S. The Americans don't mess around when it comes to visas.

[franfonse8]

Thank you.

[mmhmamun]

What if I go to my home country and stay there in the summer?