Trusted Beaverton Work Permit Attorneys
The United States economy is among the most dynamic in the world. It relies on the skills and dedication of countless immigrants. However, a non-citizen cannot work in the U.S. unless they have work authorization. An Employment Authorization Document, or EAD, is your ticket to legal employment. Contact Vanderwall Immigration today to discuss possible work authorization. We can answer your questions and address any roadblocks standing in the way. A one-on-one consultation is available with a Beaverton work permit attorney if you call or reach out online.
Consequences of Working without Authorization
Recent arrivals to the U.S. might be tempted to immediately begin working without authorization. Unfortunately, this is illegal, even if an employer offers a job. For example, some people come to the US on a tourist visa and believe they can work for a few months while here. Or they arrive on a student visa and immediately accept employment off-campus to help pay for school. However, those on student visas face detailed requirements when it comes to working legally.
Unauthorized work can have negative repercussions:
- Deportation
- Possible bar to adjustment of status in the future
- Other penalties
Unauthorized work can even show up years later if you apply to become a naturalized citizen. Some people are denied citizenship because they worked without a valid EAD and got caught. It is best to avoid breaking the law, even accidentally.
Speak with Vanderwall Immigration. There are several ways to gain work authorization. Some visas, including H1-1B for skilled workers and E-2 program for investors, have built-in work authorization and are popular options. You will not need to seek a work permit. The other option is to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Our Beaverton work permit lawyers can discuss your situation to determine the best choice for you.
Who Can Receive a Work Permit in Beaverton?
Whether you can work in the U.S. will depend on your visa category:
- Temporary Nonimmigrant Workers: Those receiving temporary visas, including E-1, E-2, H-1B, H-2B, I, and many others. Call our office today!
- Permanent Immigrant Workers
- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): Those granted DACA status can request a work permit.
- Asylees and Refugees
- Victims of violence: Anyone qualifying for a U visa or VAWA can request a work permit.
This is an incomplete list. Remember to work with an attorney to determine if you can request a work permit in the U.S.
How to Request a Work Permit
Anyone interested in working in Beaverton or any other city should understand the process. Here are the steps you will need to take:
- Complete Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.
- Find supporting documentation to submit with your application, including proof of identity.
- Submit your form and information to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for processing. You will also need to pay a fee.
- Provide biometric information, including photographs and fingerprints.
All paperwork should be filled out completely and accurately. Remember to review everything twice. Inaccurate information can result in delayed processing, denials, or even accusations of immigration fraud. Although the U.S. is eager to find workers, the reality is that USCIS has denied many applicants.
Why Work Permits Are Denied
USCIS will review your application and determine whether to issue a work permit. Some reasons for rejection include:
- Incomplete applications: Your application could be missing important information or essential documentation.
- Criminal history: A criminal record can result in a denial of a work permit. You should review any criminal history with an experienced Beaverton work permit attorney.
- Ineligible status: You might be in the U.S. on an immigration status which is not eligible for work authorization. You will either need to seek another immigration status or not work.
- Past immigration violations: Any violation in the past could result in a denial of a work permit application.
Sometimes, an attorney can address these problems before you submit your application. Timely advice is best. Call Vanderwall Immigration today with questions.
Renewing a Work Permit
Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) do not last indefinitely. Instead, you typically need to request a renewal of your EAD every year, but some are valid for up to 5 years. For example, asylees and refugees only need to renew once every five years.
You should submit a new I-765 with the required supporting documentation and fees. Work closely with your legal team if you have questions. Remember, renewal is not guaranteed. USCIS will take a fresh look at your application even if you have been working in the U.S. for years.
According to USCIS, you should submit your renewal within 120 days of the expiration date listed on your card. This gives USCIS sufficient time to process the application. USCIS has also issued a rule granting automatic extensions for many of those with a current work permit. Automatic extensions are an area that is in flux. Reach out to us to discuss whether your EAD was automatically extended.
How Vanderwall Immigration Can Help
Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is a dream for many. Beaverton’s economy continues to grow, and the demand for new workers remains intense. Our economy would be very different without the contributions of immigrant workers.
Although the labor market remains tight, the federal government continues to restrict who can hire non-citizens and which immigrants can work. Obtaining a work permit, like an EAD, is your ticket to legal employment in Beaverton and the rest of the United States.
Call Vanderwall Immigration today. Our immigration lawyers can:
- Review whether you are eligible for a work permit.
- Gather supporting documents.
- Fill out your application and ensure its accuracy.
- Respond to any problems or roadblocks, such as missing information.
- Answer any questions you have about the process.
Our firm has decades of experience with immigration law, including assisting those who come on student visas or who obtain Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. Our lawyers are proud to help non-citizens work in the United States legally.
Myths about Work Permits in Beaverton
We have heard from many people who read inaccurate information online about work permits in the U.S. Here are some of the most serious:
- Myth #1: “I have a valid tourist visa, so I can work in the U.S.” This is false. You cannot work as a tourist. You will need a visa in an eligible category.
- Myth #2: “An employer gave me permission to work when they offered me a job.” An employer cannot issue a work permit. Only USCIS, a federal agency, can grant permission.
- Myth #3: “Students can work in the U.S.” This is partly true. USCIS restricts the ability of those on student visas to work. For example, international students with an F-1 or M-1 visa can work on campus and in certain training programs. USCIS also limits when students can work off campus.
- Myth #4: “There are no serious penalties if I’m caught working without authorization.” You could face long-lasting repercussions. Do you hope to return to the U.S. someday, possibly to become a legal permanent resident? Any work violation could impact your future.
Get the facts. Any misstep might have disastrous consequences. We can help immigrants stay on the right side of the law.
Speak with a Beaverton Work Permit Lawyer in a Confidential Consultation
Vanderwall Immigration understands the Beaverton community, including the demand for foreign workers. We make our legal services available to those seeking a work permit. If you need legal help, then give us a call. We can simplify the application process, solve any problems, and answer your questions.
Vanderwall Immigration Law
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Immigration law is complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Our experienced attorneys serve families across Portland, Salem, Beaverton, and the Pacific Northwest — and can handle cases nationwide.
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