Q: Hi, as as international student are we allowed to do self employments? Like digital marketing, monetizing social media??

A: As an international student in the United States on an F-1 visa, there are restrictions on the types of work you can do. In general, you are not allowed to engage in off-campus self-employment like digital marketing or monetizing social media. However, there are a few exceptions:

1. On-campus employment: You can work on your school's campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks.

2. Curricular Practical Training (CPT): If your digital marketing or social media work is related to your field of study and you receive course credit for it, you might be eligible for CPT. This requires approval from your school's international student office.

3. Optional Practical Training (OPT): After completing your degree, you may apply for OPT which allows you to work in your field of study for up to 12 months (or 24 months for STEM fields). During this time, you could potentially engage in self-employment related to your degree.

It's important to note that engaging in unauthorized work can lead to serious consequences, including the termination of your F-1 status. Always check with your school's international student office or the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before engaging in any type of employment to ensure you maintain your legal status.

The information provided is based on my knowledge cutoff in August 2023. For the most current and accurate information, please consult with your school's international student office or USCIS directly.