A US Work Permit, or an “Employment Authorization Document” (EAD), officially gives you the right to work in the United States. Current US citizens and those who hold green cards, or have permanent residency, do not need US work permits. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) grants EAD’s and has specific rules about who is eligible for work permits.
Are You Eligible for a Work Permit?
To be eligible for a US work permit, you must fall into one of these categories:
- Asylees and those seeking asylum: Those who are illegally being persecuted within their country of origin can apply for work permits in the U.S. These individuals may seek asylum based on political, religious, or other forms of persecution. Asylum seekers should already be living within the US to file in this category.
- Refugee: Those who flee their country of origin or nationality because of fear of persecution based upon their race, religion, gender, or political persuasion are refugees, and are eligible to file for U.S. work permits. Unlike asylum seekers, refugees must be residing outside the United States to seek refugee status here.
- Students: Students who are looking for specific types of work may also apply for a US work permit. If you are such a student, consult with an immigration attorney to discuss specific employment opportunities and methods of filing.
- Those hoping to adjust to permanent residency: Those who ultimately hope to apply for a green card in the U.S. can begin by first applying for work permits, and beginning gainful employment in the U.S. For example, a skilled nurse in the Philippines can apply to work at a hospital experiencing nursing shortages, and ultimately apply for the green card after having worked with a U.S. work permit for some time.
- Those who have temporary protected status, or are applying for it: Nationals from particular countries may be granted temporary protected status, or TPS. For example, those fleeing from earthquake devastation in a particular country may be permitted to apply for U.S. work permits during a defined period of time.
- Those engaged to be married to American citizens: If you are engaged to marry an American citizen, you may apply for a work permit in the U.S.
- Those who are dependent upon foreign government officials: Family members of foreign officials may also be permitted to apply for work permits within the U.S.
Getting Help
It is highly recommended that you seek the assistance of an immigration attorney to determine your eligibility and assist you with the work permit application process. Your lawyer can help you complete your application and work with UCSIS to get your permit approved in a timely and efficient manner.
