What do I do if I have an internship in the US, but am unable to return from my home country due to COVID restrictions?

We are sorry to hear that the flight of COVID restrictions are impacting your ability to return to the US.

If you have reported your internship and ISSO has issued you an I-20 to work for your employer, you should have an email from them.  If your role in the US was to be remote working, check you have an approved waiver.

You should talk to the recruiter and your supervisor to explain the situation as soon as possible. 

You may be able to work remotely for the company while in your home country, but that will be something the employer will determine.

You should be available to work during the hours they require and have resources such as good internet service and a laptop. They may require you to use their equipment. 

For change of start date – send email to [email protected] to request a CPT update.

Include – current start date on I-20, and new start date

If the company cancels, let us know, and again send email to [email protected] to request a CPT update

If the company is open to delaying the start, and suggests dates that span two semesters, you will work within the CPT eligible timeframes for each semester, and enroll for an internship course in each semester. https://jindal.utdallas.edu/career-management-center/internships/#04-reporting-and-timelines

Continuing in the Fall = an extension

Eg Summer – July 1 – Aug 8 (start date change only)

Fall – Aug. 9 to Dec. 13 - submit a request for internship approval for Fall, and wait for new I-20 before continuing work on Aug. 9

If you continue in Fall and require reduced enrollment, please check this with ISSO. Requires FT CPT (21 hours or more per week) for at least 11 weeks. However, if you are graduating in the Fall, then you need only complete any remaining credits. https://isso.utdallas.edu/immigration-status/f1-maintain/enroll-reduced/  

Hoping you stay healthy and safe