As an F1 international student, you must report all income earned in the United States. This includes wages from on-campus or off-campus employment, stipends, scholarships, fellowships, and any other sources of income.

This guide will help you to understand nonresident tax return for international students in the United States and provide step-by-step instructions on how to file your tax returns as an F1 visa holder.

It is important to meet filing deadlines and keep records of your tax return documents to ensure you remain compliant with U.S. tax laws during your time in the United States.

1. Determine Your Tax Residency Status

The first step in filing your taxes is determining your tax residency status. International students on F1 visas typically fall into one of two categories:

  • Nonresident Alien: Most F1 visa holders are considered nonresident aliens for tax purposes during their first five calendar years in the U.S. You’re generally a nonresident if you meet the Substantial Presence Test of the IRS, which calculates the number of days you’ve been in the U.S. over the period.
  • Resident Alien: If you meet the Substantial Presence Test after your fifth calendar year in the U.S., you become a resident alien for tax purposes. Resident aliens are subject to different tax rules.

2. Gather Necessary Documents that you may need

Before you start the tax filing process, collect the following documents:

  • Form W-2: This form reports your income and withholding if you’ve been employed in the U.S.
  • Passport
  • Form I-20
  • Form 1099
  • Form 1042-S
  • Social Security Number or ITIN: If you don’t have an ITIN, ustax101.com will help you to get one.
  • Additional Income Documents: Collect any other forms or documents related to your income, such as scholarship or fellowship award letters.
  • Form 1098: If you are eligible to get.

3. Form 8843

Complete Form 8843, regardless of your income level. This form helps establish your presence in the U.S. for tax purposes and your exemption from some tax requirements.

4. Tax Treaties

Check if your home country has a tax treaty with the U.S. Some treaties may exempt specific types of income from taxation or reduce the tax rate on certain income.

5. Filing Your Return

If you have not earned any income in the United States, you must file Form 8843.

If you have earned income in the Unites States, you must file Form 1040NR for your nonresident tax return.

If it is required, you also must file your state tax return as well.

You should not file your tax return until you have all your forms as you may file incorrect tax return. If you are seeking to file your nonresident tax return properly contact us today.

  • Filing Deadline: The tax filing deadline for most individuals is April 15th of the year. The deadline for filing federal and state income tax returns for 2024 is Monday, April 15, 2024. Be sure to file by the deadline to avoid penalties and interest.

6. Pay Any Taxes Owed

If you owe taxes, pay them promptly to the IRS. The IRS accepts various payment methods, including electronic payments and checks.

7. Keep Records

You must maintain copies of all tax-related documents, including your previous year’s tax returns and supporting materials.

With our expertise and experienced tax professionals, filing nonresident tax returns becomes more manageable. Contact us today.