Work Permit Lawyer in Long Beach
Being able to work can make a real difference for you and your family. If you are waiting for an immigration decision, you may wonder whether you can apply for a work permit now. The answer depends on your immigration category and the stage of your case, not simply on your need for a job.
An Employment Authorization Document, often called an EAD or work permit, shows that you are authorized to work during its validity period. Many applicants request it through Form I-765. At Juliana Garcia Law Professional Corporation, we help you understand the connection between your work permit request and your larger immigration plan.
Who may qualify for a work permit?
These are common situations that may provide a basis to apply. Each category has its own requirements; having a pending case does not always mean you can apply immediately.
- People with a pending asylum application who meet the applicable eligibility rules.
- People with a pending adjustment of status application who qualify under that category.
- Certain applicants who receive a U visa bona fide determination.
- People with a qualifying VAWA case, depending on its stage and category.
- People eligible through a T visa case or Temporary Protected Status, known as TPS.
- People seeking DACA renewals where available and eligible under current rules.
Your application category determines the supporting records you need. We review your notices and history before recommending an initial application or renewal.
A work permit is not a green card or legal status
A work permit by itself does not give you permanent residence or legal immigration status. It also does not automatically protect you from deportation. Your underlying case needs its own careful review, even when your EAD remains valid.
For example, a permit connected to asylum serves a different purpose from a green card application based on family immigration. A U visa bona fide determination also has its own rules. Do not assume that a friend's eligibility or paperwork applies to your situation.
Preparing Form I-765 and supporting records
The right category matters as much as the form itself. A lawyer can review your identity documents, immigration notices, prior applications, and any previous work permits. Different names, missing notices, or an old address can create questions that should be addressed before filing.
Tell your lawyer about any prior denial, arrest, court case, or change in your immigration application. Do not hide information because you are worried it will complicate things. A complete history helps your lawyer identify issues and explain what additional records may be needed.
If your work permit is expiring
Check the expiration date and seek advice before your card expires. File a renewal on time within the applicable filing window, keep copies of everything submitted, and save delivery records and receipt notices. Review whether your underlying eligibility has changed since your last application.
Some renewal applicants may qualify for an automatic extension under applicable rules, but not every category or filing qualifies. Do not assume that a receipt notice alone allows you to keep working. Ask a lawyer to review your documents and explain whether continued employment authorization applies to you.
How we review your work permit options
Discuss your situation
At your $60 consultation, explain your pending cases, employment concerns, and any approaching expiration date. Payment plans are available; ask about arrangements for legal representation.
Review your records
Bring your current or expired EAD, receipt notices, decisions, identification, and copies of earlier filings. We identify missing information and the possible eligibility category.
Prepare the application
If you choose representation, we help prepare the appropriate request and supporting documents. You review the information so errors or changes can be addressed before submission.
Keep track of next steps
Save your filing copy and notices. Let us know about requests for evidence, address changes, or decisions in the underlying case that could affect your work authorization.
Clear guidance in English or Spanish
Attorney Juliana Garcia personally reviews cases and explains options honestly. She is bilingual and has more than 13 years of experience in Immigration Court, the Board of Immigration Appeals, and federal appeals. We consider how a work permit request fits into your broader case rather than treating it as an isolated form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply just because an employer wants to hire me?
A job offer alone generally does not establish eligibility for an EAD. We first need to identify a qualifying immigration category and confirm its requirements.
Does filing Form I-765 let me start working?
Filing alone generally does not authorize employment. Your eligibility, approval documents, and any applicable renewal extension must be reviewed before you rely on them for work.
What if my card expires while the renewal is pending?
Keep your receipt and contact a lawyer promptly. Whether you can continue working depends on the category, filing circumstances, and applicable rules, not just the pending renewal.
Should I keep my old work permit?
Yes. Keep copies of old cards, applications, and notices. They help document your history and can be useful when reviewing a renewal or addressing questions about an earlier filing.
Related services
Asylum
If returning home would put you at risk of persecution, asylum or another protection may be available. Understand the deadline and where your case belongs.
U Visa
A U visa may offer protection to certain crime victims who help law enforcement. Eligibility depends on the crime, harm, cooperation, and other requirements.
Family Immigration
Understand the steps that may help you reunite with your family, whether your loved one is in the United States or abroad.
Meet Attorney Juliana Garcia
Meet Long Beach immigration attorney Juliana Garcia: USF Law J.D., UCLA graduate, 13+ years in Immigration Court and the BIA. Bilingual. $60 consultation.
Talk to Attorney Juliana About Your Case
Book a $60 consultation. Payment plans available. Se habla español.
Immigration law changes often. This page is general information, not legal advice for your case.
Attorney Advertising. The information on this website is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Testimonials and prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome in any future case. Juliana Garcia, Esq. (CA Bar #287307) is responsible for this website's content.