What Is a Work Permit in the United States?

A U.S. work permit usually means an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), but not everyone who works in the United States needs one. Whether you need an EAD depends on your immigration category: some people must receive one before they can work, while others are authorized by their status or use another document to show that authorization. An EAD is evidence of permission to work for a limited period; it does not grant immigration status or replace a visa. Its conditions may also limit where or for whom you can work, so a job offer alone does not establish that you are authorized to accept the job. Before starting work or filing an application, identify the rules for your category and check current U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) instructions.

What Is a Work Permit?

A U.S. work permit is commonly called an Employment Authorization Document, or EAD. USCIS issues it as Form I-766, and it provides evidence that its holder is authorized to work during the period shown on the document. The [Employment Authorization Document page](https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/employment-authorization-document) explains the document and its role.

An EAD is one way to prove employment authorization, but it is not the only way. The evidence a person uses depends on their immigration category. For example, lawful permanent residents generally use a Green Card as evidence of authorization rather than obtaining an EAD. The EAD itself does not establish a person’s immigration status.

Who Needs an EAD, and Who Does Not?

Eligibility for an EAD depends on a person’s immigration category and the rules that apply to it. Wanting to work or receiving a job offer does not by itself make someone eligible. If a person’s category requires an EAD, they generally must receive the required authorization before working.

Some nonimmigrants must obtain an EAD before they can work. Others are authorized through their immigration status and may work only under the conditions attached to that status. For instance, a person whose authorization is tied to a particular employer may not be permitted to take a job with a different employer unless their authorization or status allows it. In some categories, an employer sponsors the worker as part of the process. Learn more about [visa sponsorship](https://www.tcwglobal.com/articles/what-is-a-visa-sponsor).

Lawful permanent residents generally do not need an EAD because their [Green Card serves as work authorization evidence](https://www.tcwglobal.com/articles/is-a-green-card-a-visa-understanding-the-difference). Other people, including some with temporary status or a pending immigration application, may be eligible to apply. Whether someone may work while an application is pending depends on the rules for that category and whether the required authorization has been granted. Some H-4 visa holders, for example, may qualify for an EAD under specific conditions; see [whether H-4 holders can work](https://www.tcwglobal.com/articles/can-an-h-4-visa-holder-work-in-the-united-states).

What Does an EAD Allow, and What Are Its Limits?

An EAD documents authorization to work during its validity period. Depending on the person’s immigration category, it may allow work for different employers rather than limiting the person to one sponsoring employer. The holder must still follow conditions that apply to their status and employment.

An EAD is not a visa. A visa relates to entry to the United States, while employment authorization concerns permission to work. An EAD does not replace a visa or other immigration document, grant lawful permanent residence, or resolve a person’s broader immigration situation.

The expiration date matters because an EAD is generally valid for a limited period. A person must confirm whether they may continue working after it expires. Renewal eligibility and any rules for continued authorization depend on the person’s category and current USCIS requirements. The [time required to get a work permit](https://www.tcwglobal.com/articles/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-a-work-permit) can vary, so check current processing information rather than assuming a particular timeframe.

An EAD also does not waive other requirements for a job. A worker may still need required licenses or credentials. Employers must meet their ordinary tax and workplace obligations and complete employment-eligibility verification for each new hire.

How Do You Apply for a Work Permit?

First determine whether your immigration category makes you eligible for an EAD. Then follow the USCIS instructions for that category because requirements, supporting evidence, and filing procedures can differ. The [USCIS EAD guidance](https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/employment-authorization-document) provides information about the document and its application process. For a step-by-step overview, read [how to get a work permit](https://www.tcwglobal.com/articles/how-to-get-a-work-permit-in-the-united-states).

As you prepare an application, identify your current immigration category and review the instructions that apply to it. Keep copies of your application and supporting documents. Keep USCIS notices as well so you can track the case and respond to any request. If you already have an EAD, check its expiration date well in advance and confirm whether you are eligible to renew or otherwise continue working.

Application procedures and requirements can change. Check current USCIS materials before filing and before deciding when you may start or continue a job.

What Should Employers Understand?

Employers should use a consistent employment-eligibility verification process for every new hire. A work permit is one possible document showing authorization, but it is not the only acceptable evidence. The worker’s immigration category determines what authorization is required and whether employment is subject to conditions or an employer-specific restriction.

When authorization depends on a time-limited document, employers should track relevant expiration dates and follow applicable verification rules. This matters especially for organizations hiring internationally or managing workers with different immigration categories. USCIS guidance explains documentation requirements and application procedures.

*This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice.