Can I work before I receive EAD under K1 ?

[tt123 1]

Today I went to get my social security card. I read lots of threads that one cannot change names. But actually today the officer in social security told me that I could change to my marriage name. I was also told that I was allowed to work under K1. Now I am not sure if I can or cannot work because so many people talk about one cannot work before EDA.

Thank you for any help.

[goolia 54]

You can change names. Best that you get your SSN before marriage and then return after marriage for a name change.

You CANNOT work before EAD. The gentleman at the desk when I went also said I would be able to work. This is false. When you receive your card it will clearly state "valid only with work authorization" or something along those lines. So yes, technically as a K1 you can work but only with an EAD which is the part not many of the SS office workers are aware of.

[SunflowerSweet 1,321]

No, you cannot work until you have the EAD.

[bowens44 214]

Today I went to get my social security card. I read lots of threads that one cannot change names. But actually today the officer in social security told me that I could change to my marriage name. I was also told that I was allowed to work under K1. Now I am not sure if I can or cannot work because so many people talk about one cannot work before EDA.

Thank you for any help.

You cannot work until you get the EAD. Your SS card will say something like not valid for work without DHS autorization

[Anh map 2,098]

Social Security Administration does not authorize people to work. The person that you spoke with is mistaken. In the past a person could work with only a K1 visa. That loophole has been closed.

[KayDeeCee 4,893]

Many SSA workers will not allow a K-1 entrant to use their married name when applying for their SSN, even though they should be able to. This is perhaps what you read about, and why it is suggested to use the maiden name. Some are able to get the SSN with their married name using their marriage certificate, just like they should be able to. You sound like you were lucky enough to get an SSA worker that knew that part of their job.

A K-1 entrant IS a legal alien allowed to work, HOWEVER, you need both the EAD and an SSN to legally work. The SSN card will state, 'Valid for work only with DHS authorization'. The EAD is the DHS authorization. There are lots of threads on this topic. You can do a search and find plenty.

~ Moved from AOS from Family Based Visas to Working & Traveling During US Immigration - topic is working ~

Edited April 1, 2016 by KayDeeCee

[Unidentified 2,930]

What would be the whole point of applying for a work authorization if you could work without it?

[tt123 1]

What would be the whole point of applying for a work authorization if you could work without it?

Because K1 visa expires after 90 days. I just feel so bored and have no idea how I spend these months.

[Unidentified 2,930]

Because K1 visa expires after 90 days. I just feel so bored and have no idea how I spend these months.

Still doesn't explain why we would be required to apply for a work authorization if we could already work.

You should get you EAD within 90 days of applying for it. Go check out your new neighborhood, make new friends etc.