L-1A Spouse’s Right to Work

Video Transcript – Working While Awaiting Renewal of L Status

Let’s take a look at work authorization for L-2 spouses — that is, the spouses of L-1 visa holders, under the most current policy.

As of November 12, 2021, USCIS recognizes that L-2 spouses are authorized to work in the U.S. simply by virtue of their status. In other words, eligible L-2 spouses no longer need to apply for a separate Employment Authorization Document (or EAD) in order to begin working.
Starting January 30, 2022, USCIS and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) began issuing Forms I-94 with a new Class of Admission (COA) code “L-2S” for L-2 spouses. In most cases, an unexpired Form I-94 showing the “L-2S” designation is all the documentation they need to prove they’re authorized to work.

Duration of Employment Authorization:
The spouse’s work authorization lasts as long as their L-2 status remains valid — typically tied to the L-1 visa holder’s status — but not more than two years at a time. If their stay is extended, they’ll need to get an updated I-94 showing continued L-2 status. Keeping that documentation current is key to avoiding any interruptions in employment eligibility.

Nature of Work Permitted:
L-2 spouses have what’s called “open market” work authorization. That means they’re free to take just about any job, whether it’s full-time, part-time, freelance, or even self-employment.

Optional EAD Application:
While applying for an EAD is no longer required, some L-2 spouses may still choose to apply for one — especially if they prefer to have a physical card as additional proof of work authorization, or if it’s requested by an employer or state agency.

Chris M. Ingram, a U.S. Immigration Attorney, is originally from Northampton, England. He earned his BA (Hons) in Law from De Montfort University, Leicester, UK, in 1994. In 1996, he completed his Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (PGDLP) at De Montfort School of Law, followed by a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from Huddersfield University, UK, in 1998. After relocating to the United States, Chris was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2003 and has been a proud member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) since 2004.

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