U.S. Work Visas and Work Permits: H-1B, EAD and Your Options (2026)
Ways to work legally in the U.S.: H-1B and other work visas, the work permit (EAD) and Form I-765.
Work visa or work permit?
They are different things. A work visa (like H-1B) is tied to a specific employer and role. A work permit (EAD) grants general permission to work based on a pending application (such as asylum or adjustment of status).
Which one fits depends on your current status and your goal.
The main work visas
- H-1B: specialty occupations; usually an annual lottery and employer sponsorship.
- L-1: intracompany transfer.
- O-1: extraordinary ability.
- H-2A/H-2B: seasonal agricultural and non-agricultural work.
- TN: for Canadian and Mexican citizens under USMCA.
The work permit (EAD) and I-765
If you have a pending asylum case, adjustment of status (I-485) or certain other applications, you can request a work permit (EAD card) with Form I-765. Once approved, you can work for any employer.
How the process usually works
In most employment paths the employer files a petition (for example I-129 for H-1B). Some permanent paths require a labor certification (PERM) first. Each step has its own timeline and fee.
Clarify it with immigo
To understand which option may fit, immigo explains the general path plainly, decodes the forms and reminds you of filing dates. Consult an attorney before deciding.
Ask immigo in your own language, track your case, upload documents and never miss an important date.