International students are a valuable resource for local business owners.

The Hiring Process

Your responsibility, as an employer of international students, is outlined in your agency information package.  If you employ students without going through an agency, you need to know that you DO have responsibilities to gather information, keep accurate records, and treat the student with the same respect and laws put forth by North Carolina and the federal government of the United States.  Here are some of your responsibilities:

• Register with SEVIS within 48 hours of arrival
• Apply for a Social Security card - the student can work while waiting for the card
• check the student's passport for the J-1 visa stamp; make sure it is current; check for the I-94 card
• the student’s DS2109 form showing the dates the student is eligible to work
• You MUST get contact information; including their home address in order to send their W-2 statement

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Tips for Employers

Employers have every reason to expect superior job performance from the international work force.  They consistently prove to be resourceful and industrious on the job.  Employers are frequently impressed by the English language skills of the students (mastery of English language skills sufficient for the employment offered is a condition of this program), although some students will naturally be more fluent in our language than others.

On the other hand, employers should be sensitive to the youth of these students and their lack of familiarity with our way of life and business practices. Time and effort spent in orientation to the local area and the business environment will prove to be a good investment.

Employers should also be sensitive to the cultural differences that these students bring to our area. Many students, especially those from Eastern Europe, are used to "piece-work" employment, where they are paid by the job, not by the hour. This may lead to misunderstandings when the work situation does not clearly show the student the next task after a given job is completed. Good, candid communications are essential to prevent misunderstandings and embarrassment.

In customer-facing positions, it may be advisable to be especially explicit in spelling out the desired company image (department, dress, etc.) retail employees are expected to present. Since program regulations permit students to make repeat visits to the US, good communications could pay great dividends in helping the employer retain a valuable and highly motivated employee for several years.

The Work/Travel Program imposes few restrictions on the type of work that the students can do. They can not be employed as domestic employees in U.S. households (child care, chauffeurs, gardeners, etc.), or perform any employment involving any type of patient care.

Students should be treated as any other employee and should receive the same pay as received by their American counterparts in the same or similar positions.

Taxes and Withholding

Wages of foreign students are subject to federal and state income tax withholding, but are exempt from social security, medicare, Federal and State unemployment taxes (FUTA and SUTA). You must mail their W-2 form to them so they can file their income tax return.