Which document is commonly issued as proof of work authorization for non-immigrant workers in the United States?

Which document is commonly issued as proof of work authorization for non-immigrant workers in the United States?

• A. Employment Authorization Card
• B. Social Security Card
• C. Passport
• D. Green Card

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that work authorization for many non-immigrants is shown with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This card, issued by USCIS, proves the holder is allowed to work in the United States for a defined period and often within specific employment categories. It serves as the practical, official proof employers rely on to verify legal employment eligibility when the individual's visa status alone does not automatically grant work rights (as with certain F-1 OPT cases, J-2 dependents, asylum seekers, etc.). A Social Security Card is about the social security number, not employment eligibility. A passport is a travel document, not proof of work authorization. A Green Card indicates lawful permanent residence and general work eligibility, but it’s not the typical proof used for non-immigrant workers whose work rights are often tied to an EAD or specific visa status.

The key idea is that work authorization for many non-immigrants is shown with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This card, issued by USCIS, proves the holder is allowed to work in the United States for a defined period and often within specific employment categories. It serves as the practical, official proof employers rely on to verify legal employment eligibility when the individual's visa status alone does not automatically grant work rights (as with certain F-1 OPT cases, J-2 dependents, asylum seekers, etc.).

A Social Security Card is about the social security number, not employment eligibility. A passport is a travel document, not proof of work authorization. A Green Card indicates lawful permanent residence and general work eligibility, but it’s not the typical proof used for non-immigrant workers whose work rights are often tied to an EAD or specific visa status.