Lorena Rivas, Esq.CEO/Managing Partner at Rivas & Associates

Te casaste con un ciudadano americano — ¿cuándo puedes trabajar legalmente?

18 Aug 2026 · 1 min

Watch on YouTube

0:42

In this brief bilingual video, the presenter explains that a foreign‑national married to a U.S. citizen can request a work permit (Employment Authorization Document, EAD) at the same time they file Form I‑485 (adjustment of status). The EAD typically takes 3–6 months to be approved; the receipt notice serves as proof that the application is pending. The speaker warns that anyone who entered the U.S. without inspection may need additional steps before filing I‑485, and emphasizes that working without authorization can jeopardize the green‑card case. The video ends with a disclaimer that the information is general and advises viewers to consult an immigration attorney for personalized advice.

Chapters

You married a US citizen, and now you wonder, when can I legally work? Here's the answer. When you file the I-485, your green card application, you can request your work permit at the same time. It's called the EAD. The EAD usually takes 3 to 6 months to be approved. While you wait, your receipt notice is your evidence that it's in the process. Now, if you entered without inspection, there may be extra steps before you can even file the I-485. That needs to be evaluated first. Most important, do not work without authorization while you wait. It can hurt your case. Call us so we can help.
Esta información es general y no reemplaza una consulta legal. El primer paso es hablar con un abogado.