Guide to Work Authorizations in the USA

• Author: Bench Genius
• Published On: June 10, 2023
• Category: Blog

Navigating the U.S. work authorization system can be complex, especially for individuals from different immigration backgrounds. Whether you're a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or a non-U.S. citizen seeking work opportunities, understanding the types of work authorizations available is essential. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the popular work authorizations in the United States.

It's important to note that work authorizations and visa requirements can be complex, and it's advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or seek guidance from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for accurate and up-to-date information based on individual circumstances.

U.S. Citizens:
U.S. citizens enjoy the unrestricted right to work in the United States, without the need for any specific work authorization. As a citizen, you have the freedom to pursue employment opportunities across various industries.

Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders)
Green Card holders, or lawful permanent residents, have the right to work in the United States without additional work authorization in most cases. However, some positions may require specific security clearances or additional licenses based on the nature of the job.

Employment Authorization Document (EAD):
The Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit, is issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It grants non-U.S. citizens who are authorized to work in the United States the ability to do so for a specific period. EADs are typically issued to certain visa holders and individuals with pending immigration applications.

H-1B Visa:
The H-1B visa is designed for individuals in specialty occupations that require specialized knowledge and a bachelor's degree or higher. It enables employers to hire foreign workers for positions that cannot be filled by U.S. workers easily.

L-1 Visa:
The L-1 visa facilitates intracompany transfers for employees of multinational companies. It allows those employed abroad to be transferred to a related company within the United States.

E-3 Visa:
The E-3 visa is a unique work visa available exclusively to Australian citizens. It was established as part of the U.S.-Australia Free Trade Agreement. The E-3 visa allows Australian professionals to work in the United States in a specialty occupation.

TN Visa:
The TN visa is available to Canadian and Mexican citizens under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). It provides work authorization for certain professional occupations.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) Program:
The OPT program is available for F-1 students, allowing them to gain practical work experience related to their field of study for a specified period after completing their degree.

STEM OPT Extension:
STEM OPT is an extension of the OPT program for students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

Fun Fact - Statue of Liberty

Did you know that the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor was originally intended to be a lighthouse? While it is now an iconic symbol of freedom and immigration, Lady Liberty was initially planned to serve as a navigational aid for ships entering the harbor. However, the statue's torch proved to be too weak as a lighthouse beacon, so its purpose shifted to become a symbol of welcome and liberty for millions of immigrants arriving in the United States. Today, the Statue of Liberty stands tall as a testament to the nation's rich history of diversity and the pursuit of dreams.

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