International Students, Permanent Residents, Undocumented Students

Most federal government jobs require applicants to be U.S. citizens or nationals. However, eligibility requirements can vary depending on the agency, office and position. Students interested in federal careers should carefully review job announcements and internship requirements early in the application process to better understand citizenship, work authorization and security clearance expectations. 

Learn more about USAJOBS’ guidance for non-citizens here.

Federal Employment and Citizenship Requirements

Most federal executive branch positions require U.S. citizenship under federal law and hiring regulations. In limited cases, agencies may hire non-citizens for certain excepted service positions or when no qualified U.S. citizen is available. Some agencies may also hire lawful permanent residents depending on the position and agency-specific policies. 

Federal job announcements on USAJOBS include a “This job is open to” section and qualification requirements that explain who is eligible to apply. Students should review these sections carefully before applying. 

Congressional and Legislative Branch Opportunities

Congressional offices and some legislative branch organizations may have different hiring rules than executive branch agencies. While many congressional internships and staff positions still prefer or require U.S. citizenship, some offices may consider non-citizens or lawful permanent residents depending on office policies, funding rules and work authorization requirements. 

Eligibility can vary significantly between offices, committees and support agencies, so students interested in legislative branch opportunities should carefully review application instructions and contact offices directly with questions about eligibility.

Security Clearances and Eligibility

Some federal internships and jobs require security clearances, which are generally limited to U.S. citizens. Even positions that do not require a clearance may still have citizenship or employment authorization requirements tied to agency policy or federal funding restrictions. Students should pay close attention to eligibility language throughout the application process and apply broadly to opportunities that match their status and work authorization.