Work eligibility while on a K-1

[Steph Robinson 0]

Hi everybody,

 

New to this forum and have one big question that I can't seem to find the answer too. Can someone on a K-1 visa who has just entered the U.S. work? What about after the wedding while waiting for the change of status to get accepted- are you eligible to work during that wait period?

 

Thank you and appreciate any advice you can provide!

[geowrian 22,335]

No. You need an EAD before you can work. ETA: ~4-7 months after filing for it alongside AOS.

[Going through 5,668]

Nope, not until authorized to do so (has an EAD).

This is one of the pitfalls about a K1, unfortunately---a lot of people choose it because they want to be physically together quicker, but either do not realize/do not take into account that unfortunately there may be some financial hardship/boredom/feeling at a standstill while waiting for authorization for the foreign spouse to legally work.

 

Hopefully the EAD arrives sooner rather than later---best of luck!

Edited September 17, 2019 by Going through

[Ontarkie 13,915]

~~Moved to Working and Traveling, form K1 P&P - The OP is asking about working with a k1~~

[Dashinka 23,243]

You may see some information suggesting that entering on a K1 visa allows someone to get a work authorization (EAD) card.  This is in fact true, but in reality it is not practical and a waste of money as @geowrianstated the processing times for an EAD is 4-7 months, so a K1 entrant would use up the 90 days of their I94 before even getting the card. 

 

Good Luck!

[NigeriaorBust 4,087]

 Also you need a social security card before working and that takes up a good amount of time.  Actually last I checked it is not a valid authorization to get work , it is listed as work eligible only so you can get a SS card.