What changed in the last three years regarding Google AdSense?

Over the past three years, Google AdSense has implemented several significant changes to enhance transparency, standardize payment structures, and align with evolving industry standards. Key updates include:

**1. Transition to Per-Impression Payments (Effective Early 2024):**

Historically, AdSense compensated publishers primarily on a per-click basis. Starting in early 2024, AdSense shifted to a per-impression payment model, aligning with the display advertising industry's standard practices. This change aims to provide a more consistent and transparent compensation framework for publishers.

**2. Revised Revenue Share Structure (Announced November 2023):**

In November 2023, Google announced an update to AdSense's revenue-sharing model. Previously, AdSense processed fees within a single transaction, with publishers retaining 68% of the revenue. The updated structure separates the revenue share into distinct rates for the buy-side and sell-side:

- **Publishers receive 80% of the revenue after the advertiser platform's fee.**

- For instance, when Google Ads purchases display ads on AdSense, Google Ads retains an average of 15% of the advertiser's spend.

Despite this structural change, publishers continue to retain approximately 68% of the total revenue.

**3. Updates to Video Inventory Policies (Effective September 23, 2024):**

Google restructured its policies for video inventory by moving them to the "Video inventory restrictions" section under Google Publisher Restrictions. Key aspects of this update include:

- Video content with restricted material may experience reduced advertising demand.

- Google Ads maintains its stance of not serving ads on video content containing restricted material.

- Clarifications were made regarding video player controls, ensuring they are not obstructed, hidden, or non-functional.

**4. Adaptation to U.S. Privacy Laws (Announced October 2024):**

In anticipation of new privacy legislation in five U.S. states (Iowa, Delaware, New Jersey, Nebraska, and New Hampshire) set to take effect in January 2025, Google introduced measures to assist publishers in complying with these laws. This includes updates to data processing terms and the implementation of Restricted Data Processing (RDP) features to manage user data in accordance with state regulations.

These changes reflect Google's ongoing efforts to adapt to industry standards, enhance transparency, and comply with regulatory developments, ensuring that AdSense remains a reliable and user-friendly platform for publishers.

Anything changed for people on non-immigrant visa?

As of April 2025, there haven't been specific changes to Google AdSense payment policies directly targeting individuals on non-immigrant visas in the United States. However, it's essential to consider the following:

**Tax Obligations:**

If you're in the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa and earning income through AdSense, you may be classified as a non-resident alien for tax purposes. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires Google to withhold taxes on payments to non-resident aliens. The standard withholding rate is 30%, but this can vary based on tax treaties between the U.S. and your home country. To ensure accurate withholding, it's crucial to submit the appropriate tax forms, such as Form W-8BEN, through your AdSense account.

**Visa Restrictions:**

Certain non-immigrant visas have restrictions on employment and income generation. For instance, individuals on F-1 student visas are generally limited in the types of work they can engage in. Earning income from AdSense without proper authorization might violate visa terms. It's advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or your visa sponsor to understand any limitations related to your specific visa category.

**AdSense Policies:**

While there haven't been recent changes specifically addressing non-immigrant visa holders, AdSense policies and terms of service are subject to change. Regularly reviewing AdSense's official communications and policy updates is recommended to stay informed about any modifications that might affect your account.

In summary, while no direct changes have been made to AdSense payment policies for non-immigrant visa holders, it's essential to remain compliant with U.S. tax laws, adhere to visa restrictions, and stay updated on AdSense policies to ensure continued eligibility and compliance.

Where Do We Stand on AdSense Income in 2024 for Those on Immigrant Visa?

In the digital age, earning income through online platforms like Google AdSense has become increasingly popular. This blog post will explore the current state of AdSense income in 2024, particularly for individuals on immigrant visas.

AdSense in 2024

Google AdSense has made significant changes in 2024. The platform has transitioned to per-impression payments, which is the industry standard for display ads. This change provides a more uniform way for paying publishers for their ad space across Google’s products and third-party platforms.

Publishers will receive 80% of the revenue after the advertiser platform takes its fee1. Google Ads will retain on average 15% of advertiser spend. Despite these changes, Google does not expect publishers to see a change in their earnings.

AdSense Revenue Calculator

To estimate potential earnings from AdSense, tools like the AdSense Revenue Calculator can be useful. This tool uses data from Google to provide estimates for how much a website will earn with AdSense. Factors such as site layout, number of ad units, audience demographics, seasonality, content niche, and ad visibility can influence AdSense earnings.

Impact on Immigrants

While the changes in AdSense are applicable to all users, those on immigrant visas may face additional considerations. For instance, the cost of applying for adjustment of status (green card) has increased significantly, from $1,760 to $3,5003. This could potentially impact the disposable income of immigrants, and thus their ability to invest in ventures like AdSense.

Moreover, income disparities exist between naturalized immigrants, noncitizen immigrants, and native-born individuals4. Noncitizen immigrants tend to have a lower median income compared to naturalized immigrants and native-born individuals. This could potentially influence the resources available to noncitizen immigrants for starting or maintaining a website monetized through AdSense.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Google AdSense continues to be a viable source of income in 2024, the recent changes to its payment structure and the unique financial considerations for immigrants mean that potential earnings can vary. It’s important for individuals on immigrant visas to consider these factors when planning their AdSense strategy.

Income Not Authorized For H1B Employees In USA

This is what an adsense pro has to say on his blog adsense blog.

What exactly is unauthorized income for H1B workers in USA. Is self-employment or making money on internet unauthorized income?

Are these considered as unauthorized income:

1)Lotto winnings

2)Sweepstakes winnings

3)Poker winnings

4)Stock/Commodity Investment Profits

5)Google Adsense Income

6)Affiliate Marketing Income

7)eBay Auction Income

8)Freelance Programmer Income

I don’t want to hamper my Green Card processing in any way. Is it true that I can’t file any 1099-MISC or W-2G form in my tax return. Even gambling win requires me to file one of those.

I didn’t have any income from any of these till now but came very close to claiming a Sweepstakes win. I was planning to invest in Silver. But I don’t want to create any problem so if its not allowed I will stay away from it and anything like that.

Answers/Response:

As a US resident ( which you are since you are living here and paying tax) you are allow to participate any Sweepstakes /lotto/lottery. So wining those is legal and you are subject to appropriate tax.

About eBay/Ad sense/Affiliate Marketing, they are considered as business. You are allowed to invest or start a business in USA. Again you have to follow appropriate laws and regulation. But you are not allow to work anyone (including you own business) but the company filed your H1b for. So you have to hire someone to work for your business or run eBay/ad sense.

I know some people running business (like gas station) but they are still in H1b visa even one has F1 visa. They are hiring other people to work for their business.

Well… running a business is also some types of work even you hire someone to work for you. I am not how those things work but pretty sure there is way to do legally.

If you are planning to do something like this I recommend you to consult a good immigration lawyer.

Adsense Income On H1B? Legal Or Not?

These are the excerpts from Google forums.

I'm a non-us citizen currently on a H1-b visa. I'm planning on

creating a website (personal blog or some informational site or forum)

but would like to subscribe to Google AdSense for additional income. I

realize h1-b has certian limitiations as to work (can't have my own

business etc., can only work for company that sponsors me etc.)so my

quesion is:

1. Will any income from AdSense classify my website as a "business"

that would put me out of status?

2. If not, is there a certain revenue level that determins wether or

not a website is a business?

Answers/Responses:

It will imply self-employment income and could potentially put you out of status.

As you know, an H1B visa holder may not be self-employed. It is ok to

own a business, but you may not actually do any work for the business

yourself. Now, although your website may not be a business in and by

itself, Adsense (and any Affiliate relationship) will bring in income

and therefore it is off limits to you. Google will issue you a 1099

MISC (the self-employed version of the W-2) for your Adsense income

which implies an independent contractor relationship and not employer

- employee.

AdSense Help Center

Will you send me a Form 1099 or 1042?

"Publishers are responsible for paying their own taxes resulting from

participation in Google AdSense. In order to facilitate this, we send

IRS forms 1099 and 1042-S to qualifying publishers as required by US

tax law. Forms will be sent before the end of January 2006."

Attorney Murthy : "A person on an H1B is not allowed to work on a 1099

at all. One who is on an EAD is allowed to work as an independent

contractor if s/he is the I-485 dependent on the EAD and not the

principal applicant for the GC, to be on the safe side. If the total

time working was less than 180 days, there is possible hope to obtain

the I-485 in the U.S. Otherwise, it adds complications and will not

generally allow the person to obtain an approval of the I-485 from

within the U.S. You should consult an immigration attorney to discuss

this issue since it could have serious consequences. "

"How? Google Adsense? income is business income. Since you are getting

paid via a 1099-MISC, which means Google is treating you as an

independent contractor, the U.S. Government has decided that income is

taxable. More importantly, Google will be reporting your income to the

IRS as one of their expenses..."

"Does this also apply to other income streams like Linkshare,

Commission Junction, other affiliate marketing, Yahoo Publisher

Network, Kanoodle, BlogAds, Adbrite, etc.?

"Yes. Most legit companies will send you 1099s, but some smaller ones

may need some nagging..."

Again, these are just what others have experienced and therefore need an attorneys advise before making any decisions.

Getting 1099-MISC from google adsense

I'm on H1-b and got a 1099-MISC from google for adsense. the amount is around $1,500. do i file it with my tax returns? i already did file my tax thru an agent, but did not include the 1099-MISC. how dangerous or safe is it not to file 1099-MISC. i don't want the ins to penalise me for this when i apply for greencard.

>>I am planning to open a website like yours and make some money through Ads. However, I am not fully aware of business legalities. Since you already have such a business, is it possible that you can help me?

I have questions like:

1. Do I need to register to start a website? As an LLC or sth else?

2. Also do I need to hire someone to maintain the website since I myself can not work on it (because being on H1B)?

3. Can I just use Yahoo or sth to obtain domain name?

>>You must report that to IRS through your Annual Tax filing. When a company sends a 1099-MISC, it will send the same information to IRS also, thus IRS knows that you have received this income and you may audited.

You can now file your amended return.

>>I've also got a 1099-Misc and initially that concerned me, since it could be viewed as an additional income. I asked my lawyer and he said he thought that should not be an issue. My source of income was gifts from usability studies. I filed that as schedule C.

>>so does this mean one can open a website and get google Adsense income on an H1-B? it says in a lot of places that you can only be a passive investor? I'm a little confused.....could some1 please throw some light on this issue.

I was thinking on opening website for google adsense, affiliate marketing, forums income and I was wondering if it was legal and what the steps were that needed to be taken to do so?

Any documents or links for referrals are welcome.

Your replies are much appreciated.

Confusing answer:

When you win beyond some $$$ in vegas, the casino will give you a 1099 which you have to file with a tax return - so there is nothing wrong in showing an income on 1099....?

>>

H1B in USA making money from adsense

I am a nonresident alien working in US and i am thinking of Subscribing to Adsense. Is it legal in earning income? Please Help me.

>>As far as I know the H1b visa entitles you to work and live in the States for a certain period of time, thus earning an income.

By launching a website and earning income via ads, I can't see any problems though. But, you will need to conform to US tax laws as Adsense will require you to provide your US tax ID number upon registration.

My opinion is that, as long as you keep things legal, report your taxes, you can earn income from Adsense while being in the US on a H1B visa.

I stand to be corrected if I am wrong.

>>Yes you can subscribe to Adsense. You have a SSN which entitles you to work.

>>Where did you get that information?

You CANNOT own a Adsense account. The rules of H1B clearly stat that you can't have other source of income other than the employer that sponsor. Hence any kind of freelance are illegal.

I am on H1B, i talked to my lawyer and i am screwed (anyway i am going back so i don't care anymore). They won't find you right away, but when you renew your H1b or apply for green card, they will check your tax info and you could get deport right away

please, Rian, if you are not 100% sure, don't post it here, if he listened to you he could have lost his VISA.

>>Like I said, I stand to be corrected. If you gained legal advise I accept your explanation.

The best answer

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a corporation with limited liability, similar to a "S" corporation, yet with several significant differences. One major difference is that it requires at least two persons to form an LLC. The owners need not be U.S. citizens or U.S. taxpayers.

Can Foreign nationals start a corporation in the United States?

Yes, 'typically' a foreign national can form a US corporation. The corporation will be formed by an 'incorporator' which is often a company or a lawyer, who will then resign in favor of the shareholders (owners) of the corporation. The corporation will be registered with the Secretary of State, Division of Corporations. The name of the proposed corporation should be checked with the Secretary of State for availability. No two corporations may have the same name, or closely similar names. The corporate name must include the word "corporation," "incorporation," "company" or such other word or abbreviation, such as "Inc." or "Corp." to indicate that it is a corporation. The shareholders (owners) need not be identified or registered. The shareholders can be individuals or other corporations, including foreign corporations. At least one director must be shown in the 'Articles of Incorporation'. One person or a number of people can hold all corporate positions and titles: director, president, secretary and treasurer. That person or persons need not be residents of the United States and can conduct business from outside of the United States. It is required that the corporation always identify a "registered office" in the U.S. and a "registered agent" who must be a resident of that State.

Can a foreign national invest money in any venture?

A person on an H1B or other temporary work visa in the United States can legally invest in any venture or company. You can start to undertake volunteer work on behalf of the venture or company at any time. However, you are not allowed to work on a full-time basis for that company and earn a salary until obtaining prior approval from the INS or DOL to work for that venture or company. In order for the person on an H1B to work for another company or employer, the person is required to obtain a concurrent H1B approval to work for the new entity, in addition to the present employer.

According to the regulations, if the H1b Visa holder (alien) is to perform services for more than one employer, each employer must file a separate petition with the Service Center having jurisdiction over the area where the alien will perform services or receive training, unless an established agent files the petition. In spite of the Department of Labor’s earlier pronouncement that different employing entities could be treated as joint employers, the INS has stated that it does not recognize the concept of “co-employers” in employee leasing agreements.

When employers share responsibilities for the employee, one of the firms must designate itself as the employer, or, if the alien has two employers, each must file a petition.

The INS has consistently stated that neither the new employer nor the beneficiary need take action with the INS if the beneficiary switches employers, as long as multiple petitions were approved and the petition for the current employer remains valid.

>>

Canadian making money with adsense

A United States H1b visa holder with a Canada green card. Can he/she make money using AdSense on his/her own website if he/she uses a Canadian bank account to register with AdSense and receive money? Basically, can he/she do online business (using Canadian identities and bank accounts) as an Canada green card holder while physically working in the US as H1b? Thank you.

>>Well Canada does not issue green cards, so I'll assume you mean permanent resident card.

Actually doesn't matter. Your H1B allows you to work for one employer. While you reside in the USA, you can invest money in a business or separate entity, however you are not allowed to work and earn income related to work for that business/entity unless you obtain a separate H1B for that business.

So in other words, you are allowed to have investment income, but not employment income, no matter where the business is located, including online.

I'm not familiar with AdSense so you would have to make your own determination as to whether this would be considered employment income or not (ie. income for work, or services rendered).


>> Yes, by "Canada green card" I meant the "permanent resident card" or "maple card".