For many people, obtaining a Green Card represents the realization of the American dream, including the opportunity to work and live permanently in the United States. However, the process of applying for a Green Card can be lengthy and complex, and one of the most common questions applicants have is whether they can work legally while their application is pending. U.S. immigration laws are strict, and working without authorization can create serious complications. If you are applying for green card, it’s important to seek professional guidance from an experienced immigration attorney as to avoid costly mistakes.
An Overview of Green Cards
A Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, allows a person to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. Although the status of “lawful permanent resident” does not expire, the physical Green Card must be renewed every ten years to keep documentation current. Renewal is done by filing Form I-90 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
There are several ways to apply for a Green Card under U.S. immigration law, depending on your circumstances. The most common categories include:
- Green Card through marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident by filing a Form I-130, the “Petition for Alien Relative”.
- Green Card through employment
- Green Card through investment in a U.S. business
- Green Card based on humanitarian reasons, such as Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), or asylum
- Green Card through winning the Diversity Visa (DV) lottery.
Each category has its own rules, required documentation, and waiting periods, which is why consulting an immigration attorney is critical to ensure eligibility and accuracy when filing your application.
Are You Allowed to Work During the Green Card Application Process?
Applying for a Green Card involves following a detailed and highly regulated process. U.S. immigration authorities carefully review each applicant’s eligibility, documentation, and compliance with immigration laws throughout the process. During this time, it’s important to follow all rules regarding work and travel, as violating employment or immigration restrictions can delay your application or even lead to a denial.
When you apply for a Green Card, the process depends on whether you are applying from within the United States (known as Adjustment of Status) or from abroad (through Consular Processing). Those applying while within the U.S. may be eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) at the same time as their Green Card application by submitting Form I-765. An EAD is a work permit that grants temporary authorization to work in the U.S. while your green card application is pending. Once approved, this document allows you to legally seek out and hold employment until your Green Card is formally issued.
It is important to understand that you cannot legally work in the United States while your Green Card application is pending unless you have been granted the Employment Authorization Document or you already hold another valid work visa, such as an H-1B or L-1 visa. Working without proper authorization may result in the denial of your Green Card application or future immigration benefits.
Contact Aspire Immigration for Green Card Immigration Law Help
Navigating U.S. immigration laws can be confusing, and even minor errors can cause major delays or denials. Having a knowledgeable immigration attorney by your side ensures that your application is filed correctly, your eligibility is protected, and that you remain in compliance with all requirements while waiting for approval.
If you or a loved one are in the process of applying for a Green Card, contact Aspire Immigration, a law firm based in Dallas, Texas serving clients worldwide. We are dedicated to helping clients achieve lawful permanent residence in the United States with the least amount of stress. Our experienced attorneys provide compassionate and effective legal representation to guide you through every stage of the immigration process. Do not face the application process alone! Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward securing your future in America.
