Work Permit in United States – Securing a work permit is a vital step for international workers aiming to work legally in the United States. A work permit, also known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), grants foreign nationals the legal right to work in the U.S. for a designated period. Without it, individuals risk deportation and may be prohibited from reentering the country. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the eligibility criteria, application process, and renewal of U.S. work permits.
A work permit is an official document issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that authorizes non-citizens to work legally within the United States. Foreign workers who lack this permit are at risk of deportation and losing the ability to return to the U.S. Moreover, having a work permit enables foreign workers to obtain a Social Security Number (SSN), which is essential for paying taxes, opening bank accounts, and accessing other financial services in the U.S.
Various categories of foreign workers are eligible for a work permit, including refugees, asylees, temporary workers, international students, and spouses of U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The specific requirements and procedures for each category may vary, but all applicants must submit their applications through the USCIS, ensuring they meet the necessary criteria.
Foreign nationals who wish to work in the U.S. must first meet specific eligibility requirements, which are determined based on their category of employment. The following groups are commonly eligible for U.S. work permits:
In addition to category-specific requirements, applicants must also demonstrate admissibility to the U.S., meaning they have no criminal convictions or immigration violations that would prevent entry.
1. Applicants must first confirm that they meet the eligibility requirements for their specific category.
2. Applicants need to collect all necessary paperwork, which typically includes a completed Form I-765, passport photos, proof of eligibility, and any other relevant documents.
3. Form I-765: This is the official application form for employment authorization and must be submitted with the application.
4. Pay Fees: Application fees vary based on the applicant’s circumstances. Payment of these fees is mandatory, and proof of payment must be included in the application.
5. The completed application and required documents should be submitted to the appropriate USCIS office.
6. After submission, applicants may need to attend a biometrics appointment where fingerprints and photographs are taken.
7. Depending on the applicant’s category, an interview may be required, where they must provide further details about their application and eligibility.
8. Once USCIS has processed the application, the applicant will receive a decision. If approved, they will receive their work permit, allowing them to work legally in the U.S.
Foreign nationals may apply for different types of work permits, depending on their situation. Common types include:
A work permit is usually valid for one to two years, depending on the worker’s category, and must be renewed before expiration to avoid gaps in employment authorization. Renewal involves submitting Form I-765 again, along with relevant supporting documents. Failure to renew a work permit on time may result in termination, requiring the individual to stop working immediately.
If a work permit expires and is not renewed, the foreign worker risks deportation and legal complications. Therefore, it is essential to stay aware of the expiration date and submit the renewal application on time.
3MTT Programme Test Past Questions – Download Pdf - The 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Program Test for the recruitment…
Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Recruitment 2025 | www.ubec.gov.ng fts application form -If you are interested in recruitment for Teachers…
uchemployment2025 - University College Hospital (UCH) Recruitment Application 2025 | UCH Application Portal 2025 - The University College Hospital (UCH),…
Nigeria Immigration Contactless Passport (CONPAS) | How to Apply. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has introduced the Contactless Passport Application System…
JTB TIN Registration Portal | How to Register Online JTB TIN Registration Portal | How to Register Online. To obtain…
PFMO Recruitment 2025 | How to Apply Online. Performance and Financial Management Officer (PFMO) Recruitment 2025- The Performance and Financial…