Employment Authorization (EADs/Work Permits)
Immigrants and nonimmigrants in the United States frequently ask how they can obtain work authorization while they are here.
U.S. immigration law is extremely complicated, and there is no way to answer this question in a one-size-fits-all manner.
To find out if you qualify for work authorization, the best place to start is to find out why you are here and what type of legal benefits or relief you might qualify for.
For example, if you came here on a visitor’s visa, then you are generally disqualified from working. In fact, working would likely violate your nonimmigrant visitor’s status. However, if you are married to a U.S. citizen, you might qualify for work authorization while you wait for a marriage-based green card through your spouse, even if you entered as a visitor.
If you are currently in removal/deportation proceedings, you might qualify for employment authorization (an EAD) based on the application you filed to protect you from being deported (e.g. Cancellation of Removal, Asylum, etc.).
Read more below to find out if you might qualify for employment based on the facts of your case, or schedule a consultation with attorney Eric Adams today.
Potential Work Permit Options
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Family Immigration
If you are applying for lawful permanent residence (a green card, LPR status) through a relative who is either a United States citizen or a Lawful Permanent Resident (parent child, son/daughter, spouse), you might qualify for a work permit while you wait. [read more]
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Immigration Court / Removal Defense
If you qualify for relief from removal/deportation in immigration court proceedings (e.g. EOIR-42B, asylum, etc.), then you likely qualify for work authorization while you wait for the judge's final decision. [read more]
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DACA | Dreamers
The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program grants work authorization to those approved. [read more]
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Military Parole-in-Place
Certain family members of U.S. military service members can apply for work authorization once their parole-in-place is granted, even if they do not qualify for green cards. [read more]
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Travel Authorization
Certain forms of travel authorization and parole carry work permits. [read more]
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U Visas for Crime Victims
Certain victims of crimes in the U.S. can apply for employment authorization. [read more]
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VAWA for Survivors of Domestic Violence
If you are the spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who abused you, then the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) may open the door to escape the violence and apply for work authorization. [read more]
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TPS (Temporary Protected Status)
An applicant who is granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS) will be eligible for lawful employment in the U.S. [read more]