Work before EAD (from greencard through marriage)

Question

Work before EAD (from greencard through marriage)

Anonymous Sep 22, 2014 1 views 3 answers

I'm waiting for my EAD, hoping to receive it before November 12. In the meantime, there's a company that is seriously considering me for a role in their company. They were wondering if I can advise them on some projects before my EAD comes through. Is that acceptable? Or even we call it "volunteer work?"

Giacomo Jacques BeharImmigration AttorneySan Diego, CACA licensed · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T12:13:52+00:00

Don't worry about any of that and just accept the position if they offer it to you. As the spouse of a U.S. citizen who has applied for a green card you are deemed to be an "immediate relative" ("IR"). IRs do not have to maintain status and can never be penalized for having engaged in "unauthorized employment". You have nothing to worry about.

Carl Michael ShustermanImmigration AttorneyLos Angeles, CA · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T12:13:52+00:00

You are not legally authorized to work before you receive your EAD. However, unauthorized employment will not prevent you from obtaining a green card through marriage.

F Capriotti 2793192.Html · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T12:13:52+00:00

F Capriotti 2793192.Html

F Capriotti 2793192.Html · Jun 15, 2026

Be patient ... don't try to 'push' things by working illegally. Volunteer 'WORK' is still 'work. Patience is a virtue.

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Work before EAD (from greencard through marriage)

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