How to Work Legally in the U.S. Without a Green Card
You Don’t Need a Green Card to Work Legally
Millions of immigrants work legally in the U.S. every year without permanent residency. Multiple visa categories and immigration statuses provide work authorization.
Work Visas That Allow Employment
- H-1B — Specialty occupations: technology, finance, engineering, medicine. Requires employer sponsorship.
- TN — For Canadians and Mexicans in specific professions under USMCA. No cap, no lottery.
- L-1 — Intracompany transfers for multinational employees.
- O-1 — Extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, or business.
Status-Based Work Authorization (EAD)
- F-1 OPT: up to 12 months after graduation (36 for STEM)
- Asylum applicants: eligible after 150 days
- TPS holders: EAD included
- DACA recipients: renewable EAD
- Pending Green Card: apply for EAD while waiting
Critical Warning
Working without authorization risks deportation and permanent reentry bars. When in doubt, consult an immigration attorney before accepting any work.
Next step: Visit USCIS.gov to confirm work authorization rules for your specific status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do immigrants have to pay self-employment tax in the U.S.?
Yes. Any person who earns self-employment income in the U.S. — regardless of immigration status — is subject to U.S. self-employment tax (15.3% on net earnings) if they earn $400 or more per year from self-employment. This applies whether you have an SSN or ITIN.
Can I file self-employment taxes with an ITIN instead of an SSN?
Yes. You can file U.S. taxes and report self-employment income using an ITIN. Apply for your ITIN using Form W-7 at IRS.gov. Note that an ITIN is for tax purposes only and does not authorize work or provide access to Social Security benefits.
