While waiting for your Green Card, the ability to work legally in the United States depends on your current visa status and whether you have secured employment authorization. For many applicants, the journey to obtaining a Green Card can take several months or even years, during which it is important to ensure that you have the right to work to support yourself and your family. If you are already in the U.S. and have filed an application for adjustment of status Form I-485, you may be eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document EAD, also known as Form I-765. The EAD allows you to work legally while your Green Card application is pending. To qualify for an EAD, you must be in a lawful immigration status and have filed Form I-485. The application process for the EAD is separate from the Green Card application, but it is typically filed concurrently with Form I-485 to streamline the process.

When applying for an EAD, it is essential to provide accurate and complete information on Form I-765, along with the necessary supporting documents, such as a copy of your Form I-485 receipt notice, proof of your current immigration status, and identification documents. The EAD application also requires a filing fee, which can change periodically, so be sure to check the current fee schedule. Once you receive your EAD, it will be valid for a specific period, usually up to two years, and you must renew it before it expires if your Green Card application is still pending. Renewing your EAD involves submitting a new Form I-765 and providing updated documentation. Timely renewal is crucial to avoid lapses in your work authorization. For individuals who are on non-immigrant visas, such as an H-1B or L-1 visa, you can continue to work according to the terms of your existing visa while waiting for your Green Card law firm of marcelle poirier. In these cases, your employment is governed by the conditions of your current visa rather than by the status of your Green Card application.

However, if you need to change jobs or employers, ensure that you do so in a manner that complies with both your visa terms and your Green Card application requirements. In some instances, if you are outside the U.S. and applying for a Green Card through consular processing, you will not be able to work until you enter the U.S. as a permanent resident. It is crucial to plan your finances accordingly and understand that you will need to wait until your Green Card is approved and you have entered the U.S. to begin working. Throughout the process, maintaining legal status and adhering to employment regulations is vital. Consulting with an immigration attorney can provide personalized guidance and help navigate any complexities related to working while your Green Card application is in process, ensuring that you remain compliant with U.S. immigration laws.