Navigating Tax Reporting for International Students in the U.S.

In recent years, the influx of international students enrolling in U.S. colleges and universities has surged significantly, marking a pivotal moment in the landscape of higher education. As this trend continues to evolve, institutions must be aware of various tax reporting considerations for both students and the institutions themselves. Understanding the intricacies of tax obligations, residency status and visa types is crucial for ensuring compliance and minimizing potential financial liabilities. Here, we discuss the essential aspects of tax reporting for international students and foreign persons in the U.S.

International Student Enrollment Trends

According to a report by Forbes Magazine in November 2023, the 2022/2023 academic year saw a 12% increase in international student enrollment compared to the previous year. This illustrates an upward trajectory, with the current estimated number of foreign students studying at U.S. institutions being over one million – a notable rise from previous years. How does this affect institutions’ tax reporting? Let’s first discuss visas and residency statuses.

Common Visa Types

International students typically obtain J-1 or F-1 visas, each with distinct characteristics and implications for tax purposes.

• J-1 Visas: Designed for students, scholars, trainees and cultural exchange visitors, J-1 visas allow for practical training employment in addition to academic pursuits. Holders of J-1 visas are generally considered nonresidents for tax purposes, with certain exemptions applicable to their income earned in the U.S.
• F-1 Visas: Issued to full-time academic or language students pursuing degrees or certificates at U.S. institutions, F-1 visas offer flexibility for program transfers and limited on-campus employment opportunities. Similar to J-1 visa holders, F-1 visa holders are typically treated as nonresidents for tax purposes, subject to specific exemptions and regulations.

Residency Status and Taxation

Determining residency status is important in tax reporting, as it dictates the extent of an individual’s tax obligations in the U.S. Residency status is determined by criteria outlined in the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 7701(b) and the Substantial Presence Test (SPT), with foreign nationals on student visas generally classified as nonresidents.

Taxation of Residents vs. Nonresidents

Residents of the U.S. are subject to taxation on their worldwide income, whereas nonresidents are taxed on U.S.-sourced effectively connected income. The annual filing requirements differ, with residents filing Form 1040 and nonresidents filing Form 1040NR.

Withholding Obligations

Special withholding rules apply to payments made to nonresident aliens. Depending on the nature of the income received, a default withholding rate of 30% on U.S.-sourced income may be imposed. However, numerous exceptions exist, requiring careful consideration and compliance by withholding agents – typically the educational institutions disbursing payments to foreign persons.

Tax Treaty Considerations

The U.S. has entered into Income Tax Treaties with numerous countries, offering potential benefits and exemptions for foreign students and scholars. These treaties often address the taxation of scholarships, fellowship grants and compensation earned while studying or conducting research in the U.S. Understanding the relevant provisions of tax treaties is essential for maximizing tax benefits and minimizing liabilities.

Compliance Requirements

To ensure compliance with IRS regulations, foreign students and institutions must complete and submit appropriate documentation. Students must often complete Form 8233 for tax treaty exemptions and Form W-8BEN for certification of foreign status. Failure to provide accurate and timely documentation may result in unnecessary withholding or penalties.

After year-end, educational institutions must file Forms 1042-S and 1042 with the IRS, reporting payments made to nonresidents. A copy of Form 1042-S must also be provided to a nonresident student, who is a recipient of the payment. These forms summarize income subject to withholding and any applicable tax treaty benefits claimed. This form, along with other required filings, facilitates IRS compliance and ensures transparency in tax reporting. Nonresident students rely on information contained in Form 1042-S to prepare their U.S. tax returns.

Key Takeaways

Not all international student tax circumstances are the same.

Keeping compliant with federal tax withholding and reporting obligations for international students and institutions of higher education is becoming increasingly more and more difficult. At Sikich, we have the experience and knowledge to help you and your organization navigate the myriad of federal tax laws, regulations, and tax treaties to keep you and your international students in compliance with U.S. tax obligations.

With the continued increase in international student enrollment in U.S. colleges and universities, it is certain that the IRS will scrutinize tax compliance with payments made to foreign students. Let our Sikich tax team assist you in identifying and resolving issues to help you stay in compliance with your tax withholding and reporting obligations.

• Understand Residency Status: Determine whether an international student qualifies as a resident or nonresident for tax purposes.
• Comply with Withholding Requirements: Withholding agents must adhere to strict IRS regulations regarding tax withholding on payments to foreign persons.
• Leverage Tax Treaty Benefits: Utilize available tax treaty provisions to optimize tax outcomes for foreign students and scholars.
• Stay Informed: Keep current with updates to tax laws and regulations affecting international students and educational institutions.
• Reach out to Sikich: Our tax team has the knowledge and experience to assist with these tax implications.

Navigating the complexities of tax reporting for international students and foreign persons requires careful attention to detail and adherence to IRS guidelines. Our team specializes in this unique tax reporting to best serve your institution in ensuring compliance and mitigating potential tax liabilities. To learn more, please get in touch.

About our Authors

Lesley Keller, CPA, MT, AEP^®, is a director who provides tax consulting and compliance services to clients in a variety of industries, including manufacturing and distribution, real estate, professional and technology services, and not-for-profit organizations. She advises individuals, trusts, estates and closely held businesses with U.S. and state taxation and reporting with a focus on international transactions, assets and investments.

Bryan Lake, EA, is a director of expatriate tax services and international tax compliance and consulting. He specializes in the taxation of U.S. expatriates, foreign nationals and third country nationals.