Immigrant visa and work permit question

[thebigman2377 5]

Good day,

If I posted in the wrong place, I apologize.

I am asking this question on behalf of a friend who just recently moved to the US with an immigrant visa. She applied for jobs and receive alot of callback, but was scared that she might not be eligibile to work because she hasn't received her green card yet. So, my question is: Is she eligible to work? I am thinking 'yes' because she received an immigrant visa and not a nonimmigrant. If yes, what proofs can she submit to the prospective employer if asked about the green card? Perhaps a statement from the agency stating that the green card is on the way, if possible? She does have a social security number, and it doesn't say anywhere on it about not being able to work.

Your feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks

Edited April 1, 2014 by thebigman2377

[AnotherLostSoul 167]

I am not sure under what base your friend got her immigrant visa, but in case "marriage based/employment based" then if she has her EAD (employment authorization document) which is a plastic card, not really a document then yes, she is authorized to work. I hope this helps. Some others might going to chime in with a more intelligent answer than mine. All the best!

[thebigman2377 5]

I am not sure under what base your friend got her immigrant visa, but in case "marriage based/employment based" then if she has her EAD (employment authorization document) which is a plastic card, not really a document then yes, she is authorized to work. I hope this helps. Some others might going to chime in with a more intelligent answer than mine. All the best!

She received her immigrant visa through the standard way. Her father petitioned for her.

[AnotherLostSoul 167]

I believe, that yes, she can work. She just needs to take her SSN with her, and her passport that has the "stamp"/visa in it that shows that she is a freshly "washed" immigrant and the green card itself has not arrived in the mail.

This is what I found on USCIS, and that's where I'm drawing my conclusion from (I underlined the part for your attention):

Applying for other documents from other agencies (Driver's License, Social Security Card) as a Permanent resident

Permanent residents can work in the U.S. When you were granted permanent residence, we may have placed a special stamp in your passport or given you a temporary status document. Until you receive your new Permanent Resident Card, use this stamp or document if:

• You apply for an unrestricted social security card
• You apply for a driver's license
• You need to travel abroad for less than one year

When you apply for a job, show your new permanent resident card (green card) or your unrestricted social security card, and a valid identity document, such as your driver's license to prove eligibility to work here in the U.S.

For information about how to apply for a social security card, please see the Social Security Administration website. If you were already in the U.S. when you became a permanent resident, and have not yet received temporary evidence of your new status, please follow the instructions on your approval notice.

She received her immigrant visa through the standard way. Her father petitioned for her.

[thebigman2377 5]

Thank you.

[hmh33 117]

I am not sure under what base your friend got her immigrant visa, but in case "marriage based/employment based" then if she has her EAD (employment authorization document) which is a plastic card, not really a document then yes, she is authorized to work. I hope this helps. Some others might going to chime in with a more intelligent answer than mine. All the best!

Sorry to say this, AnotherLostSoul, but it's unhelpful to offer advice when you don't know what you are talking about.

Anyone with an immigrant visa by definition is ineligible for an EAD, because once they enter the US they become a permanent resident. Their immigrant visa, when endorsed with an entry stamp by CBP, serves as a temporary proof of LPR status, and therefore also as proof of employment eligibility.

[AnotherLostSoul 167]

You're forgiven, since I already copy pasted the stuff from USCIS website later on...(in case you only read my very first reply)

Sorry to say this, AnotherLostSoul, but it's unhelpful to offer advice when you don't know what you are talking about.

Anyone with an immigrant visa by definition is ineligible for an EAD, because once they enter the US they become a permanent resident. Their immigrant visa, when endorsed with an entry stamp by CBP, serves as a temporary proof of LPR status, and therefore also as proof of employment eligibility.