Swagato: Why does nonresident international students in USA pay social security and Medicare taxes?
Why does nonresident international students in USA pay social security and Medicare taxes? A major portion of these students will end up leaving USA. Hence they do not get the benefits anyway and end up paying for something they do not get value for. What gives? Is there anyway to get these refunds back if the student leaves USA for good?
Answers and Views:
Answer by Ralph N
that is the america way.
paying for something and get no value.
A NON-RESIDENT alien student in F-1 status is only supposed to be working on campus or in an approved internship (OPT or CPT). Neither of these are to withhold Fica/MC. Some employers are unaware of the rule (see IRS publication 515).
If you have an unapproved job (or approval to work due to hardship), these wouldn’t be covered and Fica/MC is due.
By the way, if you have been in the US for more than 5 years as an F-1 student, you do owe the taxes; more than 2 years for a J-1.
Answer by sunshine&smilesNot sure, but I guess the government figures that by being here, you are receiveng a priviledge from the U.S., so they want you to give something in return.
Leave a Reply