How to File Form 8843 for F-1 and J-1 Visa Holders

If you’re an international student or exchange visitor in the U.S. on an F-1 or J-1 visa, you’re probably focused on school, research, or cultural exchange—not taxes. But there’s one small but important tax form you must file each year, even if you didn’t earn a penny: Form 8843.

In this post, we’ll break down what Form 8843 is, who needs to file it, and how to file it step by step.

What Is Form 8843?

Form 8843 is an IRS form titles “Statement for Exempt Individuals and Individuals with a Medical Condition.” Despite the intimidating name, this form is mainly used by nonresidents (like F-1 and J-1 visa holders) to claim exemption from the Substantial Presence Test–the test that determines if you should be taxed like a U.S. resident.

Even if you didn’t earn any U.S. income, you are still required to file Form 8843 to report your presence in the U.S.

Who Must File Form 8843?

You must file Form 8843 if:

• You are in the U.S. on a F-1, J-1, or J-2 visa, AND
• You were present in the U.S. for any part of the year (even one day), AND
• You are a nonresident alien for tax purposes

If you had no U.S. income, you only file Form 8843

If you had U.S. income, you file Form 8843 with your tax return (Form 1040-NR or 1040-NR-EZ).

When Is Form 8843 Due

For tax year 2024 (filed in 2025), it was due April 15, 2025, if you’re filing it with a tax return, or June 17, 2025 if you’re not filing a tax return.

How to File Form 8843 — Step-by-Step

Step 1: Download the Form

Get the latest Form 8843 from the IRS website:
https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8843

Step 2: Fill Out the Top Section

Enter your name, U.S. taxpayer identification number, and address. If you don’t have a social security number or ITIN and aren’t filing a tax return, you can leave the SSN field blank.

Step 3: Complete Part I: General Information

• Line 1a – Enter the type of visa (e.g., F-1)
• Line 1b–1c – Provide the date of entry and visa status.
• Line 4a–4b – List the number of days you were present in the U.S. for the current and previous two years.

Step 4: Complete the Appropriate Part Based on Your Visa Type

• Part II – F or J students
• Part III – J teachers or trainees (e.g., J-1 scholars or professors)
• Part IV – Professional athletes
• Leave the other parts blank unless they apply to you

Step 5: Sign and Date Form

No filing fee is required. Just sign and date at the bottom of the page.

Step 6: Mail It to the IRS

If you’re not filing a tax return (you had no U.S. income):

Mail Form 8843 to:

Department of the Treasury

Internal Revenue Service Center

Austin, TX 73301-0215

USA

If you are filing a tax return, attach Form 8843 to your 1040-NR and mail them together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the form: Many students assume no income means no filing. Not true—Form 8843 is still required.
• Using the wrong address: Check the IRS website or your campus international office to confirm where to send it.
• Missing the deadline: Late forms can cause problems with future visa renewals or status adjustments.

Tools That Can Help

Some tax prep tools like Sprintax, Glacier Tax Prep, or VITA programs for international students can help you generate Form 8843 for free or a low cost. Check with your school’s international office–they often have access codes or free assistance.

Final Thoughts

Filing Form 8843 may not seem like a big deal, but it’s an important part of maintaining your visa compliance in the U.S. The good news? It’s quick, free, and easy once you know what to do.