When you apply for a green card inside the United States, your ability to work depends on your current status and whether you receive a separate work permit. Some applicants can keep working under an existing visa, while others must wait until USCIS approves an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Understanding which category you fall into helps you avoid delays, problems at your job, or unintentional violations.
Who Can Work While a Green Card Application Is Pending?
Your work eligibility depends on how you entered the country and the type of application you filed. In most cases, you can work if one of the following applies:
- You already hold a valid work visa, such as H-1B or L-1.
- You receive an approved EAD after filing Form I-765 with your adjustment packet.
- You have an immigration category that allows employment without additional authorization.
When you know your options early, you can plan your next steps with more confidence.
How Work Authorization Works for Adjustment of Status Applicants
If you filed Form I-485 for adjustment of status, you must have employment authorization to begin or continue working unless you qualify under an existing nonimmigrant category.
Most applicants submit Form I-765 at the same time as the I-485 so they can receive an EAD while they wait. After approval, the card lets you work for any U.S. employer. Processing times vary, but many people receive their work permit several months before their green card interview.
If you work without permission, USCIS can deny your application. We help you avoid that problem by reviewing your status, existing visas, and the timing of your filings.
Using Your Current Work Visa While the Green Card Is Pending
Some applicants do not need a new work permit. If you hold a nonimmigrant status that already authorizes employment, you may continue to work during the green card process as long as:
- Your visa remains valid
- You follow the same terms and conditions of the visa
- You maintain lawful status
For example, H-1B and L-1 workers can keep working for their sponsoring employer. The same is true for certain other limited categories. If your visa will expire soon, or if you plan to change employers, we can help you decide whether to renew, transfer, or rely on an EAD instead.
What Happens If You Change Jobs While Waiting?
Changing jobs is possible, but it comes with rules. Employment-based applicants must stay within the same or similar occupation if they rely on portability under the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act (AC21). If you switch to a different type of job, USCIS may question whether you still qualify for your green card category.
Family-based applicants have more flexibility, but they still need valid work authorization at all times. Before you make a move, we can review whether your plans put your case at risk.
What If Your EAD Is Delayed or About to Expire?
Delays happen, but you have options. If your EAD is pending longer than usual, you may qualify for automatic extensions or emergency requests in limited circumstances. Some applicants can avoid lapses by renewing early.
We can help you track expiration dates, plan renewals, and avoid gaps that affect your job or your immigration status.
Work Options for Applicants Outside the United States
If you are applying for a green card through consular processing, you cannot work in the United States until the immigrant visa is issued and you enter the country as a permanent resident. There is no EAD available during consular processing, and U.S. employment before entry can jeopardize the case. We help applicants plan timelines so they avoid problems when preparing to move.
Ready to Protect Your Application and Your Work Authorization?
Waiting for a green card can be stressful when your job is on the line. We can review your status, guide you through work permit filings, and help you stay on track while your case moves forward. Contact D’Alessio Law to get clear answers and reliable support.
