Practical Employment Information
Social Security Number/Card
In the United States an individual’s Social Security number/card is used for a variety of purposes usually relating to identification or employment. Although a Social Security number/card may be obtained for reasons other than work, it is generally used for employment purposes. Obtaining a social security card does not give international students authorization to work, but you must have one in order to be legally employed.
If you have been approved to work in the U.S., you may be issued a valid Social Security number/card. Before applying for a Social Security card you must have verification from the employer on company letterhead of your job offer. You may then apply by taking your current I-94, I-20 from an accredited school, evidence of age and identity, and evidence of full-time attendance and authorization to work to the Social Security Administration Office. You will need a letter from the Bellarmine Primary Designated School Official or Designated School Official before they will provide you with a Social Security card. For further information or to apply for a Social Security number/card, contact: YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO WORK WITHOUT A SOCIAL SECURITY CARD.
Federal and State Income Taxes
International Students are required by law to file a federal income tax return each year, even if they have not earned any income in the United States. To do so, you need to complete three forms: (1) Federal form 1040 NR (Non-Resident) or form 1040NR-EZ (Nonresident with no dependents), (2) State (Kentucky) form 740, or 740-EZ (Single person with no dependents), or 740-NP (Part-year resident), and (3) Federal form 8843 (Statement for Exempt Individuals, an informational statement). Forms are due by April 15 for individuals who have earned income in the United States. The deadline for students who have not earned any U.S. income is June 15. For further information or assistance, contact the Internal Revenue Service, the Kentucky Revenue Cabinet, or a tax preparation service, or visit the website at www.IRS.gov
USCIS Photo Requirements
Since September 1, 2004, USCIS will only accept color, full-frontal photographs for immigration benefit applications such as employment authorization documents and adjustment of status applications. To view the USCIS flyer with the new photo instructions, please visit the USCIS web site.
J-1 Student Information
Students participating in an exchange program with Bellarmine University through the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP) have been issued a Form IAP-66, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status, through that program. These students must coordinate directly with Bellarmine’s International Programs Office Miles Hall Suite 149, (502) 272-8479 and ISEP www.isep.org for all issues relating to employment, extension of stay, transfer and travel.
Social Security Administration Office - General Information and Services 1.800.772.1213
Downtown Office
601 West Broadway
Louisville, KY 40202
502.582.6690 | East Office
10503 Timberwood Circle
Louisville, KY 40223
502.425.8629 | West Office
2500 W. Broadway
Louisville, KY 40211
502.775.5709 |