Selling Artwork and Earning Money Online

International students with F-1status are not permitted to sell artwork or receive compensation for creative work unless they have prior employment authorization from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Selling artwork online or at a craft fair does not qualify as on-campus employment.

F-1 students should always consult with us prior to engaging in any volunteer work, sales, or anything that can be construed as employment or income generating. Engaging in such activities without authorization could result in a violation of nonimmigrant status which could involve having to depart the US.

Selling artwork may be permissible if you are on approved Optional Practical Training (OPT). If you’re unsure whether you can sell your artwork or not, please contact the globaleducation@mica.edu.