1) What “work permit” means in the US (EAD vs. work visa)

In everyday conversation, “US work permit” is used for both:

• Employment Authorization Document (EAD)— a card issued by USCIS that lets you work for most employers during a specific period, if your immigration category allows it.
• Work visa / work-authorized status— authorization to work because you hold a visa/status that permits employment (often employer-sponsored), sometimes without an EAD.

2) The two main paths to working legally in the United States

Path A: Employer-sponsored work visa (common for people abroad)

For many applicants, a US employer is the engine of the process. The employer may file a petition with USCIS, you attend a visa interview at a US consulate, then enter the US in that visa classification and work under its rules.

Path B: EAD (work authorization through an eligible category)

EAD eligibility comes from your underlying immigration situation (for example, certain family-based or employment-based applicants in process, certain students under OPT, or other authorized categories). You apply to USCIS, then receive an EAD card if approved.

3) EAD explained: who qualifies and what it allows

An EAD (Employment Authorization Document) is a USCIS-issued card that proves you can work in the US for a specified time. It’s powerful because it can be flexible, but it’snot available to everyone.

Who typically qualifies for an EAD?

EAD eligibility depends on category, and categories can change. Examples of common situations include:

• Some students in authorized employment programs (such as OPT for eligible F‑1 students).
• Some applicants with pending adjustment of status applications (green card process).
• Some spouses or dependents in eligible statuses.
• Other humanitarian or special categories recognized by USCIS.

What an EAD does (and does not) do

• Does:Let you work for most employers during the EAD validity period (subject to any restrictions in your category).
• Does not:Automatically grant a visa for entry to the US. Entry is separate from work authorization.

Official reference:Form I‑765, Application for Employment Authorization (USCIS)