Yes, you can work while waiting for your marriage-based green card, but you’ll need to have proper work authorization first. If you’re applying for a green card from within the U.S. (Adjustment of Status), you can file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with your green card application.
Once approved, you’ll receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), often called a work permit, which allows you to work legally while your green card application is processed. It typically takes 5 to 7 months to receive your work permit after filing. If you’re applying from outside the U.S. (consular processing), you won’t be able to work in the U.S. until your green card is approved and you arrive as a lawful permanent resident.
