US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has clarified the documentation that certain E Visa and L Visa nonimmigrant spouses may use as evidence of employment authorization based on their nonimmigrant status. Here’s a clear list of what you need.
What can I use as proof of work authorization as an E Visa or L Visa spouse?
Beginning on Jan. 30, 2022, both USCIS CBP began issuing I-94 cards for E Visa and L Visa spouses with the following codes to indicate they are authorized to work in the United States:
- E-1S
- E-2S
- E-3S
- L-2S
An I-94 card with any of the above codes indicates your authorization to work in the United States, and can be used as proof to begin work in the United States.
What if my I-94 was issued by CBP or USCIS before January 30, 2022?
If you have an unexpired I-94 that was issued by CBP before January 30, 2022, you should contact CBP Deferred inspection for information on how to update your I-94.
If you have an unexpired I-94 that was issued by USCIS before January 30, 2022, USCIS will mail you a notice along with an unexpired Form I-94 reflecting E-1, E-2, E-3, E-3D, E-3R, or L-2 nonimmigrant status. This notice will serve as evidence of employment authorization.
What if I don’t receive a notice from USCIS?
If you are an E Visa or L Visa spouse and under 21, or if you have not received your notice by April 30, 2022, you should contact USCIS for an updated notice by emailing them directly at: E-L-married-U21@uscis.dhs.gov.
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