Is it possible to obtain a local work permit?

Let’s start by providing some context on the subject. In the United States, there is no “work card” similar to the one that many countries have. Instead, workers use other documents to prove their authorization to work, such as the Social Security Number (SSN) and, when applicable, the Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

For workers entering the country with an H-2A visa, which is intended for temporary agricultural activities, the work authorization is strictly tied to the employer who sponsored the visa. This means that the worker may perform their activities only for that employer, according to the terms of the visa. Generally, the employer assists in obtaining the SSN, which is the number used to identify the worker for tax and social benefits purposes.

It is essential to remember that, even though there is no physical “work card,” all hiring and employment processes must strictly follow United States immigration and labor laws. Adhering to these rules is crucial to avoid legal issues and ensure that your rights as a worker are protected.

We always emphasize the importance of seeking information from official sources or from companies and professionals specialized in the immigration area, being cautious of miraculous promises or offers that seem too good to be true. This caution helps avoid scams and misleading marketing campaigns, which can jeopardize your immigration status.

In summary, although there is no “work card” equivalent to those in some other countries, workers with an H-2A visa obtain their right to work through authorization tied to the employer, using documents such as the SSN to formalize their employment legally and properly.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.