Unauthorized Work

#What this actually means

Unauthorized work means performing any kind of employment in the U.S. without proper work authorization from USCIS. This includes working on a tourist visa, working before your EAD (Employment Authorization Document) is approved, working for an employer not listed on your visa, or freelancing when your visa only allows employer-specific work.

Even seemingly minor work — like getting paid cash for odd jobs or working as an independent contractor — counts as unauthorized employment in the eyes of USCIS. Volunteer work is generally fine, but if it looks like employment (regular hours, replacing a paid worker), it can be scrutinized.

#Why it matters

Unauthorized work is a serious immigration violation that can derail your entire case. It can make you inadmissible (blocking a green card), get your current visa revoked, and create long-term bars from future immigration benefits. It's one of the most common — and most avoidable — mistakes people make.

#Key things to know

• Working without authorization can make you inadmissible under INA §212(a)(6)(C) or trigger other grounds of denial
• Even a small amount of unauthorized work can create problems — USCIS doesn't have a minimum threshold
• If you're on an H-1B or L-1, you can only work for the sponsoring employer unless you have a separate authorization
• F-1 students have strict limits on work — only on-campus employment or approved OPT/CPT
• If you've worked without authorization, talk to an attorney before filing any immigration applications — there may be ways to address it