U.S. Work Visa vs. Employment Authorization Document (EAD) – USCIS Guide (2024)

1. What is the difference between a U.S. Work Visa and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?

A U.S. Work Visa is a document that allows a foreign national to enter the United States in order to work legally in the country for a specific time period. An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a card that grants an immigrant permission to work in the United States legally. The EAD is an official document issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to certain eligible non-citizens. The EAD card must be renewed periodically to maintain its validity. The U.S. Work Visa has no such requirement for renewal.

2. How do I apply for a U.S. Work Visa?

In order to apply for a U.S. work visa, you must first obtain a job offer from a U.S. employer, then the employer must file a petition on behalf of the employee with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Depending on the nature of your employment, you may need to apply for a certain type of visa such as an H-1B visa for professional work, or an L-1 visa for intra-company transfers. After your petition is approved, you can apply for the visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy in your home country.

3. How long does it usually take to obtain a U.S. Work Visa?

The length of time required to obtain a U.S. work visa depends on the type of visa and the individual’s circ*mstances. The process can take anywhere from several weeks to several months, depending on the individual’s specific situation.

4. What are the requirements for a U.S. Work Visa?

The requirements for a U.S. Work Visa vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, all applicants must have a valid passport, a job offer from a U.S. employer, and proof of qualifications or specialized skills. You may also need to provide evidence of financial stability, proof of intent to return to your home country after your visa expires, and a copy of your birth certificate. Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, additional requirements such as background checks, medical exams, or interviews may also be necessary.

5. How do I apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?

You must file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form must be accompanied by the appropriate fee, supporting documents, and photographs. You will also need to provide USCIS with evidence that you are eligible for an EAD. If you are not sure if you are eligible to receive an EAD, consult with an immigration attorney or accredited representative.

6. How long does it usually take to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?

The processing time for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) can vary depending on the particular application and the current immigration processing times. However, most Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) are processed within 90 days of filing.

7. What are the requirements for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?

In order to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), a person must either be a non-citizen of the United States or be in a specific immigration status. They must also have an approved I-765 form from the USCIS and have a valid, unexpired passport. Additionally, they must establish that they are eligible for work authorization in the US in accordance with immigration law.

8. What are the types of U.S. Work Visas?

The types of US Work Visas are H-1B Visa, L-1 Visa, B-1 Visa, O-1 Visa, E-2 Visa, TN Visa, and H-2B Visa.

9. What are the types of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)?

The types of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) are:

-Form I-688B, Employment Authorization Card

-Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document

-Form I-765V, Refugee Travel Document

-Form I-765WS, Work Authorization for Certain H-4 Dependent Spouses

-Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

-Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status

-Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal

10. What is the cost of a U.S. Work Visa?

The cost of a U.S. work visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, the application fee is $190 although some visas may have additional fees.

11. What is the cost of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?

The cost for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is $410.

12. How long is a U.S. Work Visa valid for?

A U.S. Work visa is typically valid for a period of three to five years, depending on the type of visa.

13. How long is an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) valid for?

The validity period of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is typically one to three years depending on the terms of the authorization.

14. Can I transfer my U.S. Work Visa to another employer?

Yes, you can transfer your U.S. Work Visa to another employer. You will need to file a new petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and have it approved before the transfer is made. The new employer must also be willing to sponsor the transfer.

15. Can I transfer my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to another employer?

No, Employment Authorization Documents are not transferable from one employer to another. To work for a different employer, you must apply for a new Employment Authorization Document.

16. Are there any restrictions on where a U.S. Work Visa holder can work?

Yes, U.S. Work Visa holders are generally restricted to working in the field in which the visa was issued. For example, a foreign worker with an H1B visa is limited to working in specific required specialty occupations. Additionally, U.S. Work Visa holders must work for the employer specified on their visa application and cannot change employers without proper authorization.

17. Are there any restrictions on where an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) holder can work?

Yes. An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) holder is generally restricted to working only in the specific job or type of work listed on the EAD. Additionally, if the EAD was granted based on an application for asylum or refugee status, the holder may be restricted to working only for employers who have been approved by the Department of Justice.

18. Are there any special benefits associated with having a U.S. Work Visa?

Yes, there are several benefits associated with having a U.S. Work Visa. These include the ability to legally live and work in the United States, protection from deportation, access to certain government benefits such as Social Security and Medicare, the right to apply for citizenship, the ability to travel outside of the country and return, and access to certain banking services. In addition, many employers may offer additional benefits to employees with a U.S. Work Visa.

19. Are there any special benefits associated with having an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?

Yes, there are some special benefits associated with having an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). These benefits may include the ability to apply for a driver’s license, open a bank account, access in-state tuition and financial aid for college, and access certain healthcare services. Additionally, some states may allow EAD holders to apply for a professional license or certification.

20. How do I renew my U.S. Work Visa or Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?

To renew your U.S. work visa or Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you must submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form can be found on the USCIS website. Additionally, supporting documentation and a filing fee are required for your application to be processed. Once USCIS has received your application, you will receive notification of the status of your request.

U.S. Work Visa vs. Employment Authorization Document (EAD) – USCIS Guide (2024)

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