Internship with an International Organization

This type of work authorization allows you to complete an internship with a recognized international organization. Authorizations are granted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

You will receive your work authorization from USCIS as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). You may only begin working after you receive your EAD and only during the dates listed on the card.

Eligibility

You may apply as soon as you are in valid F-1 status. There is no academic-year waiting period.

To qualify, you must:

• In valid F-1 status
• Have a valid passport
• Be enrolled full time and in good academic standing
• Have an offer from a recognized international organization. View the list of acceptable recognized international organizations.

Key Guidelines

• Duration:
  • Work authorization is granted up to one year, or until your internship end date, whichever comes first
  • Your authorization will automatically end if you graduate, fail to mantain status, or transfer to another school
• Hours per week:
  • You may work up to 20 hours per week during required semesters (fall & spring)
  • You may work full time during official school breaks
• Type of work: Your internship does not need to be related to your field of study. However, most international organizations prefer to hire students for roles connected to their academic background.
• Offer of employment: You must have a written offer of employment from a qualifying international organization. The position should be appropriate for F-1 students and typically should not qualify for G nonimmigrant status.
• Approval process: You must not work until you receive your EAD and the start date is valid
• Enrollment: You must continue to maintain full-time enrollment and be in good academic standing
• Travel: It is not recommended to travel outside the U.S. while your application is pending with USCIS. After your application is approved and you have received your EAD, you may travel internationally.
• CPT & OPT Eligibility: Receiving Internship at an International Organization authorization does not affect your eligibility for CPT and OPT.

How to Apply

Step 1: Find an Internship

An internship offer with an international organization is required to be eligible for this type of work authorization. The organization should provide an offer letter on official letterhead that includes:

• Start and end dates
• Number of hours per week
• Worksite address
• Supervisor name
• Compensation (if any)

Step 2: Submit Your Internship with an International Organization Request

1. Log in to accessVIS using your NetID and password.

2. Select Employment & Training from the left menu.

3. Submit the Internship with an International Organization request.

• You'll be required to upload the following documents:
  
  • Form I-94
  • Passport
  • F-1 visa (if applicable)
  • Internship offer letter

Step 3: Receive Your Internship with an International Organization I-20

VIS typically processes requests within 5–7 business days. If your request is approved, you will receive a new I-20 recommending the internship at an international organization. Review it carefully, then print and sign it.

Step 4: Prepare Application to USCIS

Apply to USCIS by completing the Form I-765 and providing the required evidence. USCIS must receive your application within 30 days of your Internship at an International Organization I-20 issuance.

Processing times are typically 3–6 months. 

Do not submit your I-765 application to USCIS until you have received your I-20 recommending the internship at an international organization.

Review I-765 Application Guidance

Step 5: Mail Your Application to USCIS

You must file Form I-765 by mail. Online filing is not allowed for this category.

• Send your application to the correct USCIS Lockbox using FedEx or UPS
• USCIS must receive your application within 30 days of the I-20 issue date

Step 6: Track Your Application & Report Your Approval

• Receive a receipt notice within 2–5 weeks
• Use the USCIS case status tool to track your application
• Contact your VIS advisor if you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) or you find errors on your EAD
• Upon approval, send a copy of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to your VIS advisor