E and L Dependent Spouses Now Have Automatic Work Authorization

E1, E2 and L1 visa applicants can apply for the dependent spouses to obtain dependent visas, based on their familial relationship. Previously, after obtaining dependent visas, spouses had to then apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. This process was taking well over six months to process.

Fortunately, there is no longer a need to wait. Effective as of March 2022, dependent spouses of E1, E2 and L1 visa holders now have work authorization, incident to status. This means, it is no longer necessary to file for work authorization as it is built into the visa. This grants the dependent spouse great flexibility and they can apply for employment with a U.S. company, work remotely for a foreign company while in the U.S., or can start their own U.S. business.