A pending green card application does not by itself authorize employment in the United States. Permission must come from an effective employment authorization document or a status that authorizes the particular work. A receipt showing that an application was filed is a different document. [1]
Identify the authorization that covers the job
A person with a properly pending adjustment application may qualify to request an EAD under category (c)(9). A person maintaining an employer-specific work classification may instead be authorized for the approved employment under that classification. These routes have different conditions. Consular processing abroad does not automatically create eligibility for an adjustment-based EAD. [1]
For example, an H-1B worker’s existing employer authorization should be distinguished from using an adjustment EAD to perform a different job. Holding an additional card and actually relying on it can have different practical consequences for maintaining an independent classification.
Check effective dates and current validity rules
USCIS reduced the maximum validity period for covered initial and renewal EADs, including adjustment-based cards, from five years to eighteen months for applications pending or filed on or after December 5, 2025. The individual card and applicable decision still determine the authorization actually issued. A maximum period does not guarantee every applicant receives it. [2]
Renewal should be planned using the current category instructions. Renewal applications filed on or after October 30, 2025 generally no longer receive the former automatic extension, subject to the rule’s limited exceptions. Qualifying earlier filings are treated separately. [3] Keep the card, decision, receipt, and any separate status approval together.
Before starting or changing employment
Check the job, employer restrictions, effective dates, and continuing basis for authorization. A tax form or an employer’s willingness to hire does not supply immigration permission. If the underlying I-485 is denied or another important case event occurs, reassess dependent authorization before continuing work. [1]
A useful record includes the I-485 receipt, EAD front and back, current admission record, and any employer petition approval. When the documents appear inconsistent, resolve the issue from the actual legal basis rather than choosing whichever paper has the latest printed expiration. Employment verification and the immigration application should reflect the same accurate facts.
Related questions
See category (c)(9) adjustment EADs and Form I-765 and What Happens to an EAD if I-485 Is Denied?.
Primary sources
- 8 CFR 274a.12 — 2025 CFR edition
- USCIS Increases Screening, Vetting of Aliens Working in U.S.
- DHS Oct14,2026 final rule — Removal of Automatic EAD Extensions
Sources checked: October 31, 2026.