Work Authorization

An employment authorization document, known popularly as a “work permit,” is a document issued by the USCIS that provides its holder a legal right to work in the USA. It is not at all the equal of, or similar to, a Resident Alien card (“green card”). Certain aliens, that is, nonresidents of the USA, who are temporarily in the country, may file a Form I-765, application for employment authorization, to request an EAD. An EAD is issued for a specific period of time based on the applicant’s immigration situation. A person who has a valid EAD can lawfully work for just about any employer in the United States.
Aliens who are sponsored by U.S. employers receive temporary work visas, for example, H1-B, L-1, or O-1, are authorized to work for the sponsoring employer for the duration of the visa. Aliens on such work visas are not required to obtain an EAD.