What counts as work authorization in the United States?
Work authorization in the US is granted through specific immigration statuses, such as an employment-based visa, permanent residence, or a separate Employment Authorization Document issued by USCIS. Being present in the US on a valid visa does not by itself permit employment unless that visa category allows it.
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How it works
An employer sponsoring a foreign worker typically files a petition with USCIS tied to a specific job and visa category, and work is limited to the terms of that approval. Some individuals, such as certain visa holders or asylum applicants, apply separately for an Employment Authorization Document that permits broader employment.
Commonly mixed up with
Holding any US visa is sometimes assumed to include permission to work. Only visa categories and statuses that specifically authorize employment allow it.
What counts as work authorization in the United States?
| Knowledge, New York | Legal, visa and entry |
|---|---|
| Short answer | Work authorization in the US is granted through specific immigration statuses, such as an employment-based visa, permanent residence, or a separate Employment Authorization Document issued by USCIS. Being present in the US on a valid visa does not by itself permit employment unless that visa category allows it. |
| How it works | An employer sponsoring a foreign worker typically files a petition with USCIS tied to a specific job and visa category, and work is limited to the terms of that approval. Some individuals, such as certain visa holders or asylum applicants, apply separately for an Employment Authorization Document that permits broader employment. |
| Commonly mixed up with | Holding any US visa is sometimes assumed to include permission to work. Only visa categories and statuses that specifically authorize employment allow it. |
| Last reviewed | 2026-08-08 |
Short questions
- Can a tourist visa holder work?
- No, tourist and business visitor visas do not authorize employment.
- What is an Employment Authorization Document?
- It is a card issued by USCIS confirming permission to work, used by certain visa holders and applicants.
- Is work authorization tied to a specific employer?
- Many employment-based visas restrict work to the sponsoring employer.
- Can a green card holder work anywhere?
- Yes, permanent residents generally have unrestricted work authorization.
- Where are the rules?
- USCIS publishes work authorization rules by category.
Sources
More in this track
- What is the difference between ESTA and a visa?
- What are the main categories of US visas?
- What happens at entry inspection when arriving in the US?
- What are the customs allowances for entering the US?
- Can you drive in New York on a foreign driver's license?
- What is the difference between a New York State ID and a driver's license?
- Who is eligible for the Visa Waiver Program?
- Can you change visa status while already in the United States?
- What is the difference between a green card and a nonimmigrant visa?
These pages explain how the rules work and link the authority that owns them. They are not legal, tax or immigration advice, and amounts and thresholds change, so open the source before you act.
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