Can’t forget about our international athletes. International athletes need to be more aware of their NIL deals than any other athlete, your NIL income doesn’t just impact your taxes it can impact your immigration status.
For F‑1 visa holders, the wrong NIL activity can put your visa, your student status, and your ability to stay in the U.S. at risk.
International athletes, this is what you should be aware of:
Visa Restrictions – understand F‑1 visas restrictions because the wrong deal can violate your visa. F-1 visas tend to limit off‑campus work and many NIL deals do not qualify under the few exceptions allowed.
No Self‑Employment Tax – F‑1 visas students don’t pay self‑employment tax for their first five calendar years in the U.S. Take the small wins when we can get them.
Form W‑8BEN – If you legally earn NIL income, give this form to the payor to avoid a flat 30% withholding tax on the gross.
Don’t just sign – every institution should have an office that handles all international student matters (International Student Office) . Please talk to them or an international/immigration tax professional or attorney before signing any NIL deal. There could be activities that may be allowed under specific conditions that would not jeopardize immigration status, however, you would need guidance.
Some countries have tax treaties with the United States that can reduce or even eliminate certain tax obligations for international student‑athletes. Your specific situation depends on your home country, your visa status, and the type of income you earn.
If you’re an international student‑athlete navigating NIL or other U.S. income, it’s worth speaking with a qualified international tax professional who understands treaty benefits and nonresident rules. International tax isn’t my lane, but I know people.
