Do international students have to file federal tax returns?
Yes! All international students, scholars and researchers nonresident for tax purposes are required to file Form 8843 regardless of income. International students nonresident aliens for tax purposes who have received income from U.S. sources must file a tax return (Form 1040 NR-EZ or Form 1040 NR) and attach the supplemental Form 8843. Unfortunately, international students with nonresident aliens tax status have few options to file their nonresident tax returns. For most foreign students, the cost of hiring a tax accountant is extremely high considering the limited amount of income they can earn during a school year. Furthermore, the complicated IRS language makes it extremely difficult for students to file their nonresident tax returns on their own.
