Resident Alien

[camilabuljubar]

Im on J1 Research Scholar I am considered a Resident Alien, I would like to be oriented on what to do, I was told that I have to do as any other citizen but I have no income, I work as a volunteer on research. I am fully supported by my parents. I also was told that otherwise fill out form 8843. I'd like to know what to do and what is form 8843.

Thank you

[ErnieS0]

You do not have to file any tax forms if you are J1 Research Scholar, qualify as a resident alien and have no income.

In general, an alien in J-1 status (hereafter referred to as a “J-1 alien”) will be treated as a U.S. resident for federal income tax purposes if he or she meets the Substantial Presence Test. You meet this test if you were physically present in the U.S. on at least:

1. 31 days during the current year, and
2. 183 days during the 3-year period that includes the current year and the 2 years immediately before that, counting:
   • All the days you were present in the current year, and
   • 1/3 of the days you were present in the first year before the current year, and
   • 1/6 of the days you were present in the second year before the current year.

Form 8843 is used by nonresident aliens. You do not have to file this form.