Overview of Form 8843
IRS Form 8843 is a tax form used be foreign nationals to document the number of days spent outside of the U.S. and help determine tax responsibility. All F-1/J-1 foreign national (and their F-2/J-2 dependents) who are non-residents for tax purposes are required to file Form 8843 This is the case whether or not you received income or are filing a separate tax return.
Residents for tax purposes are NOT required to file IRS Form 8843.
Dependents (including children, regardless of age) should complete a separate Form 8843 independent of the F-1/J-1.
Who Needs to File Form 8843?
All F-1/J-1 visitors and their F-2/J-2 dependents must file From 8843 if they are considered 'non-residents for tax purposes.' This is the case whether or not you earned income or will need to file a tax return, too. You must file form 8843 if BOTH of the following conditions are met:
- You were present in the U.S. in F/J status for any portion of the previous calendar year (the year for which you are filing)
- You are a non-resident for tax purposes
How can I file the 8843?
Sprintax tax preparation software will lead you through the process of completing and filing the form 8843.