Going through the U.S. work permit process can be complex, but at Wogwu Law, we simplify it for you. Whether you're seeking employment opportunities in the United States or an employer looking to hire foreign nationals, our team is equipped to guide you through every step of obtaining a work permit.

Understanding U.S. Work Permits

A U.S. work permit, officially known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), allows individuals to work legally in the U.S. for a specific period. Several categories of foreign nationals are eligible for an EAD. We help you understand which category fits your situation and what it means for your employment prospects.

Who Can Apply for a Work Permit?

Eligibility for a U.S. work permit, officially known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), is based on your specific immigration status or visa type. Here are some common categories of individuals who may be eligible to apply for a work permit:

• Asylum Applicants: Individuals who have applied for asylum in the United States and are waiting for a decision on their asylum application can apply for a work permit. Usually, they can apply for an EAD if 150 days have passed since the submission of their asylum application and no decision has been made.
• International Students: Certain international students may be eligible for a work permit under specific conditions. For example, students on F-1 visas might be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which allow them to work in areas related to their field of study.
• Dependents of Visa Holders: Certain visa holders, such as spouses of H-1B (H-4 visa) or L-1 visa holders, might be eligible to apply for a work permit. The eligibility often depends on specific conditions tied to the principal visa holder’s status.
• Adjustment of Status Applicants: Individuals who have applied for lawful permanent residency (Green Card) in the U.S. can apply for a work permit while their Green Card application is being processed.
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Beneficiaries: Those granted TPS due to unsafe conditions in their home countries can apply for a work permit, allowing them to work legally in the U.S. for as long as their TPS status is valid.
• DACA Recipients: Individuals who benefit from the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program can apply for a work permit. DACA provides temporary protection from deportation for qualified young adults who came to the U.S. as children.
• Certain Visa Holders: Some other specific visa categories also allow for the eligibility to apply for a work permit. USCIS defines these categories and includes a range of humanitarian and non-immigrant statuses.

Other Special Categories: There are additional special categories defined by USCIS that may be eligible for work authorization, such as applicants for suspension of deportation, certain battered spouses and children, and other specific categories.