What Does “Legally Authorized to Work in the US” Mean?
If you’ve ever applied for a job in the United States, you’ve likely come across the question: “Are you legally authorized to work in the US?” This is a standard question on job applications, but what does it really mean, and how should you answer it?
Who Is Legally Authorized to Work in the US?
Being “legally authorized to work in the US” means that you have the legal right to accept employment under US immigration and labor laws. This includes:
✅ US Citizens – Born in the US or naturalized.
✅ Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders) – Lawful permanent residents with work authorization.
✅ Work Visa Holders (H-1B, L-1, TN, etc.) – Foreign workers with valid employment-based visas.
✅ Asylees & Refugees – Individuals granted asylum or refugee status with work permits.
✅ DACA Recipients – Those with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status and work authorization.
✅ Other Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Holders – Such as OPT (for F-1 students), spouses of certain visa holders, and others with valid EADs.
Who Is Not Legally Authorized to Work?
❌ Undocumented immigrants – Those without legal status or work permits.
❌ Tourists (B-1/B-2 Visa Holders) – Generally not allowed to work (except in very limited cases).
❌ Expired Visa or EAD Holders – If your work authorization has expired, you are no longer legally allowed to work.
Why Do Employers Ask This Question?
Employers are required by law (Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, or IRCA) to verify that every employee is authorized to work in the US. They must complete Form I-9 after hiring to confirm eligibility.
How to Answer This Question on a Job Application
✔ If you ARE authorized to work → Answer “Yes” and be prepared to provide documentation (e.g., passport, green card, EAD, or visa).
✔ If you ARE NOT authorized but may be in the future → Some applications allow you to select “No, but I will require sponsorship” if you need a work visa.
✔ If you ARE NOT authorized and do not qualify → Answering “No” may disqualify you from employment unless the employer is willing to sponsor you.
What If Your Status Changes?
If you gain work authorization later (e.g., through a visa approval or DACA), you can update employers or reapply for jobs that previously rejected you due to lack of authorization.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your work authorization status is crucial for job hunting in the US. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, consult an immigration attorney or check USCIS.gov for official guidance.
Have questions about work authorization? Drop them in the comments below!
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult an immigration lawyer for specific cases.