If you’re married to someone with an L1 visa, which is a non-immigrant visa for workers being temporarily transferred to the US from their home country, then you might be eligible for an L2 visa. But, what happens if you want to work in the US as well? Can a person with an L2 visa work in the USA? This is a question many people ask, and the answer is typically yes.
The L2 visa is designed for spouses and dependents of L1 visa holders, and it allows for limited employment in the US. This visa is issued to the spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 years old. The good news is that L2 visa holders can work in the US if they apply for and receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which is issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
As an L2 visa holder, you may be eligible to work in the US in any field, including self-employment and part-time positions. However, there are a few limitations that you should be aware of. For example, you cannot work for an employer other than the one that holds the L1 visa, and you cannot work for more than 20 hours a week or full-time during school holidays. So, if you’re hoping to work in the US with an L2 visa, make sure to apply for an EAD and be mindful of any limitations.
What is L2 Visa?
L2 visa is a type of dependent visa that allows spouses and minor children of L1 visa holders to enter and stay in the United States for the duration of their L1 visa holder’s authorized stay. L1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign executives, managers, and specialized knowledge employees to work in the United States for a maximum of seven years.
Unlike the L1 visa, which is reserved for highly skilled workers, the L2 visa is more accessible and relatively easier to obtain. The L2 visa allows its holders to study, work, or engage in any other lawful activity in the United States. However, to work, L2 visa holders must obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The EAD is a work permit that authorizes L2 visa holders to work in the United States. To apply for the EAD, L2 visa holders must submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with supporting documents such as a copy of their L2 visa and their spouse’s L1 visa. Once approved, the EAD is valid for up to two years and can be renewed for as long as the L2 visa remains valid.
Requirements for getting L2 visa.
The L2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows dependent spouses and minor children of L1 visa holders to live and work in the United States. To obtain an L2 visa, the following requirements must be met:
- The primary visa holder must have a valid L1 visa, and the L2 applicant must be the spouse or child of the primary visa holder.
- The L2 applicant must provide proof of their relationship to the primary visa holder. This may include a marriage certificate or a birth certificate showing the relationship to the parent.
- The L2 visa applicant must submit a completed Form DS-160, which is the online non-immigrant visa application form.
- The applicant must also pay the visa application fee and provide proof of payment.
- The applicant must undergo a medical examination by a physician approved by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- The L2 applicant must also provide a valid passport that will remain valid for the duration of their stay in the United States.
Can a person with L2 visa work in the USA?
Yes, L2 visa holders are permitted to work in the United States. However, L2 visa holders must apply for employment authorization through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once approved, the L2 visa holder may legally work in the United States.
Length of Stay on L2 visa and extension options
The length of stay for L2 visa holders is determined by the length of stay of the primary visa holder. If the L1 visa holder’s stay is extended, the L2 visa holder’s stay can also be extended. L2 visa holders may apply for an extension of their stay in the United States by submitting Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Non-immigrant Status, before the expiration of their current authorized stay.
Employment and L2 Visa Holders
L2 visa holders are not required to obtain a job offer before applying for employment authorization. However, once approved, L2 visa holders must acquire valid job offers before beginning work in the United States. L2 visa holders are permitted to work in the United States until their employment authorization expires.
| Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| New Application for Employment Authorization | $410 | 90-120 days |
| Renewal of Employment Authorization | $410 | 90-120 days |
Please note: Processing times for employment authorization documents may vary and are subject to change.
Can an L2 Visa holder work in the USA?
One of the benefits of an L2 visa is that it allows the visa holder to work in the United States. However, there are certain circumstances and restrictions that apply to this privilege.
- The L2 visa holder must first apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This document grants the holder permission to work in the USA.
- The L2 visa holder can work in any field and for any employer. There is no need to receive sponsorship or a job offer from a specific company.
- The L2 visa holder is not required to work, and can choose to be a stay-at-home parent or pursue other activities instead.
It is important to note that the L2 visa holder’s employment is tied to their spouse’s L1 visa status. If the L1 visa holder’s work authorization is terminated, the L2 visa holder’s work authorization will also be terminated.
Furthermore, the L2 visa holder is not eligible for certain types of jobs that require security clearance, as their visa status does not allow them access to classified information. These jobs may include government positions or jobs in defense contracting.
Overall, an L2 visa holder can work in the USA, but must first obtain an Employment Authorization Document and adhere to certain restrictions. It is important for L2 visa holders to stay up-to-date on the regulations surrounding their work authorization and visa status.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Opportunity to work in any field and for any employer | Job options may be limited for certain types of positions |
| No requirement to receive sponsorship or a job offer from a specific company | Employment is tied to spouse’s visa status |
| Flexibility to choose to work or pursue other activities | Certain industries may be off-limits due to security clearance restrictions |
When considering the benefits and restrictions of an L2 visa holder’s ability to work in the USA, it is important to consult with immigration experts and stay up-to-date on any changes to regulations and policies.
Restrictions on L2 visa holders’ work opportunities.
Individuals holding an L2 visa, which is a dependent visa, may face certain restrictions with regards to their work opportunities in the United States. These restrictions have been put in place by the U.S. government to protect the interests of American workers and ensure that jobs are not taken away from them by foreign nationals.
- L2 visa holders are not allowed to work unless they apply for and receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- The EAD is valid for a period of two years and can be renewed as long as the L2 visa holder remains in the United States.
- The L2 visa holder can only work in the specific field and for the specific employer mentioned in the EAD.
It is important to note that the process of obtaining an EAD can be lengthy and can take several months. L2 visa holders should also keep in mind that the job market in the United States is highly competitive and that finding a job in their field may take time. The L2 visa holder must also adhere to all United States tax laws, including filing a tax return.
Employers who wish to employ foreign nationals must also adhere to certain regulations as specified by the U.S. government. The employer must sponsor the foreign national and file for a work visa. The process of obtaining a work visa can be lengthy, with several rounds of interviews and background checks. The employer must also show that there are no American workers that can fill the position being offered to the foreign national.
Conclusion
While the L2 visa does allow dependent family members of L1 visa holders to reside in the United States, it comes with certain restrictions. L2 visa holders must apply for an EAD to work in the United States, and the process of obtaining one can be lengthy. The job market in the United States is highly competitive, and finding a job in their field may take time. It is important for L2 visa holders to adhere to all United States tax laws and for employers who wish to employ foreign nationals to adhere to the regulations specified by the U.S. government.
Document verification and processing time for L2 visa application.
Applying for an L2 visa entails going through a rigorous process that ensures that only qualified individuals are granted the opportunity to live and work in the USA. One crucial aspect of this process is document verification, where applicants are required to provide relevant documents to back up their claim to the visa. These documents include:
- Valid passport
- Marriage certificate to prove the relationship between an L1 visa holder and the L2 visa holder
- Proof of financial support to show that the L2 visa holder would not be a liability to the US government
- Proof of medical fitness to show that the individual would not be carrying any debilitating illnesses with them to the USA
- Proof of educational qualification to prove that the individual has the required skills to work in the capacity they are applying for
Once an applicant has submitted their documents, the verification process begins, and the processing time varies depending on several factors. These factors include:
- The workload of the processing center at the time of application
- The completeness of the documents submitted
- The accuracy of the information provided
- The need for additional information or an interview with the applicant
- The country of origin of the applicant
On average, the processing time for an L2 visa application is between three to six months, though it can take up to a year in some cases. During this time, the applicant can track their application’s progress via the USCIS website or through regular updates from their immigration lawyer. It is essential to ensure that all documents and information provided are accurate and complete to avoid delays in the processing time.
| Processing Stage | Processing Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Receipt of Application | 1-2 weeks | The processing center confirms receipt of the application and issues a receipt number |
| Application Processing | 2-4 months | The processing center verifies the documents submitted and conducts background checks on the applicant |
| Decision Making | 2-4 weeks | The processing center makes a decision on the application based on the information and documents submitted |
| Visa Issuance | 1-2 weeks | The applicant is notified of the decision, and if approved, they can proceed to schedule an interview at the US embassy in their country of origin to obtain their visa |
It is important to note that these processing times are subject to change and may vary depending on the circumstances surrounding each application.
Validity and Renewal of L2 Visa
A person with an L2 visa can work in the United States without having to change their visa status. The L2 visa is valid for the same duration as the L1 visa holder’s visa, which is typically up to three years. Renewal of the L2 visa is also possible for the same period as the L1 visa.
However, it is important to note that the L2 visa holder’s ability to work in the United States is entirely dependent on the L1 visa holder maintaining their visa status. If the L1 visa holder’s visa expires or is revoked, the L2 visa holder’s ability to work in the United States will be affected. In such cases, the L2 visa holder will need to leave the United States or apply for a change of status to another visa category.
How to Renew L2 Visa
- Submit Form I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status before the current L2 visa expires.
- Include supporting documentation, such as proof of the L1 visa holder’s status and employment.
- Pay the application fee and biometric services fee.
The processing time for an L2 visa renewal can vary, but it usually takes around three months. It is recommended to apply for a renewal well in advance of the expiry date of the current L2 visa to avoid any disruptions in employment or status.
L2 Visa Validity and Family Separation
If the L1 visa holder’s job requires frequent international travel, the L2 visa holder may face significant periods of separation from their family. In such cases, it may be advisable to apply for a multiple-entry L2 visa, which allows for more flexibility in traveling in and out of the United States.
Additionally, the L2 visa holder may be able to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if they wish to work in the United States and the L1 visa holder is unable to maintain their visa status for any reason. The EAD is typically valid for up to two years and is renewable.
Conclusion
The L2 visa allows family members to accompany the L1 visa holder and work in the United States. The renewal process for the L2 visa is straightforward, but it is important to maintain the L1 visa holder’s visa status to avoid any issues with the L2 visa holder’s ability to work in the United States. Applying for a multiple-entry L2 visa and an EAD can provide additional flexibility and opportunities for the L2 visa holder.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Allows family members to work in the United States | Dependent on L1 visa holder’s visa status |
| Straightforward renewal process | Potential for family separation |
| Multiple-entry L2 visa and EAD offer additional flexibility |
Overall, the L2 visa is a great option for family members of L1 visa holders to work and live in the United States. With proper planning and attention to visa status, the L2 visa can provide a rewarding and fulfilling experience for both the L1 and L2 visa holders.
Differences between L1 and L2 visa
Both L1 and L2 visas are non-immigrant visas that allow foreigners to work in the United States. However, there are significant differences between the two visas.
- The L1 visa is designed for executives, managers, and specialized knowledge workers who are being transferred to a US office within their company. The L2 visa is for the dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21) of L1 visa holders.
- The L1 visa allows the holder to work for a specific employer in the United States for a maximum of 7 years. The L2 visa allows the holder to work for any employer in the United States as long as their spouse’s L1 visa is valid.
- L1 visa holders are authorized to work immediately upon entering the United States, while L2 visa holders must apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before they can start working.
One of the most significant differences between L1 and L2 visas is the ability to work. L1 visa holders do not need to apply for an EAD and can work immediately upon arrival in the United States. On the other hand, L2 visa holders must apply for an EAD, which can take several months to process. Once the EAD is granted, the L2 visa holder can work for any employer in the United States. However, it is important to note that the L2 visa holder’s ability to work is tied directly to their spouse’s L1 visa status. If the L1 visa holder loses their job or their visa status is terminated, the L2 visa holder’s ability to work is also affected.
It is also worth noting that L2 visa holders can attend school or college while living in the United States, without requiring a separate student visa. However, if the L2 visa holder wants to study full-time, they will need to apply for an F1 student visa.
| L1 Visa | L2 Visa |
|---|---|
| Designed for executives, managers, and specialized knowledge workers who are being transferred to a US office within their company | For dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21) of L1 visa holders |
| Allows the holder to work for a specific employer in the United States for a maximum of 7 years | Allows the holder to work for any employer in the United States as long as their spouse’s L1 visa is valid |
| Authorized to work immediately upon entering the United States | Must apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before they can start working |
In summary, there are significant differences between L1 and L2 visas. The L1 visa is designed for executives, managers, and specialized knowledge workers who are being transferred to a US office within their company. Meanwhile, the L2 visa is for the dependents of L1 visa holders. While L1 visa holders can work immediately upon entering the United States, L2 visa holders must apply for an EAD. It is also important to note that the L2 visa holder’s ability to work is directly tied to their spouse’s L1 visa status.
FAQs About Can A Person With L2 Visa Work in USA
1. Can I work in the USA with an L2 visa?
Yes, L2 visa holders can work in the USA, but they need to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
2. Do I need a job offer to apply for EAD?
No, you don’t need a job offer to apply for an EAD. You can apply for an EAD once you enter the USA, and it normally takes 60-90 days for the processing.
3. Is there any restriction on the type of job I can do with an EAD?
No, there’s no restriction on the type of job you can do in the USA with an EAD. You can work for any employer and in any industry.
4. Is there any quota for EAD issuance?
No, there’s no quota for EAD issuance. L2 visa holders can apply for EAD any time during their stay in the USA.
5. Can I renew my EAD?
Yes, you can renew your EAD if you need to continue working in the USA after the validity period of your current EAD expires. You need to file a new application for EAD renewal at least 120 days before your current EAD expires.
6. Can my EAD be revoked or terminated?
Yes, your EAD can be revoked or terminated if you violate the terms and conditions of your visa or if your L2 visa status is terminated.
7. Can I apply for a green card while on an L2 visa?
Yes, you can apply for a green card while on an L2 visa if you meet the eligibility criteria for the green card category you are applying for. Your L2 visa status won’t affect your eligibility for a green card.
Closing Thoughts
We hope this article has provided you with useful information about L2 visa and work authorization in the USA. If you’re an L2 visa holder seeking work authorization or planning to apply for a green card, make sure to consult an immigration attorney for guidance. Thanks for reading, and we invite you to come back later for more informative articles!