Table showing the employer role, student role and duration, and work authorization for different employer hiring options for international students. The table also notes whether employer sponsorship is required or not.

2026 Employer Hiring Options for International Students

Interstride’s 2026 Employer Hiring Options for International Students is a table that shows the employer’s role, student’s role and duration for the specific work authorization visa type. This chart also shows if sponsorship will be needed for the work authorization visa.

Who should use this resource?

Employers who are interested in hiring international students but who are unsure of the hiring process and the steps that need to be taken. International students who are unsure of the hiring process and who are looking to gain work experience in the United States.

Why it’s helpful?

This resource can be helpful for employers as it shows different work visa options for foreign workers and it mentions the length of work eligibility as well as responsibilities of the employers and whether they need to sponsor the worker. Knowing this information would also be helpful for international students who may need to inform employers they are interviewing for who may not be aware of the hiring process. Students can also advocate for themselves and emphasize that with CPT and/or OPT they do not need to be sponsored.

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