L-2 Dependent Work Authorization in Newport Beach: EAD for L-1 Spouses
Help for spouses of L-1 intracompany transferees to obtain work permits in Orange County
Quick Answer
For spouses of L-1 intracompany transferees living in Newport Beach and coastal Orange County, the L-2 visa comes with significant employment benefits. SoCal Immigration Services helps L-2 dependents obtain work authorization to build their careers in America.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
For spouses of L-1 intracompany transferees living in Newport Beach and coastal Orange County, the L-2 visa comes with significant employment benefits. SoCal Immigration Services helps L-2 dependents obtain work authorization to build their careers in America.
What is L-2 Dependent Status?
Key Facts:
• L-2 status is tied to the principal L-1 holder's status
• L-2 spouses can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
• L-2 children under 21 can study but cannot work
• L-2 status duration matches the L-1 principal's validity
L-2 Work Authorization Benefits
- •Work for any employer - no sponsor required
- •Work in any job or occupation
- •Be self-employed or start a business
- •Change employers freely without reporting
- •Work full-time or part-time
- •No wage or hour restrictions
Eligibility for L-2 Work Permit
- •Be the spouse of an L-1A or L-1B visa holder
- •Be in valid L-2 status in the United States
- •L-1 principal must maintain valid status
- •Have not violated immigration status
- •Have a valid passport
L-2 EAD Application Process
| Step | Action | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gather required documents | 1-2 weeks |
| 2 | Complete Form I-765 | 1-2 days |
| 3 | Submit application to USCIS | Same day |
| 4 | Receive receipt notice | 2-3 weeks |
| 5 | Biometrics appointment (if required) | 3-8 weeks |
| 6 | EAD card approved and mailed | 3-6 months |
Required Documents for L-2 EAD
- •Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
- •Copy of your L-2 approval notice (I-797)
- •Copy of your passport biographical page
- •Copy of your most recent I-94 arrival record
- •Copy of spouse's L-1 approval notice
- •Two passport-style photographs
- •Evidence of marriage (marriage certificate)
- •Filing fee ($410) or fee waiver if eligible
- •Previous EADs if renewal application
L-2 EAD Processing Times
| Service Center | Processing Time | Premium Processing |
|---|---|---|
| California Service Center | 3-6 months | Not available |
| Nebraska Service Center | 3-6 months | Not available |
| Potomac Service Center | 4-7 months | Not available |
L-2 to Green Card Options
• Employment-Based: If your spouse's L-1 employer sponsors them for a green card, you receive derivative status
• Self-Sponsored: With L-2 work authorization, you can find an employer to sponsor your own green card
• EB-1C Path: L-1A managers often qualify for EB-1C green cards with faster processing
• Concurrent Filing: When priority dates are current, file I-485 along with I-140
Common L-2 Issues
- •EAD processing delays affecting employment
- •Gap in work authorization during renewal
- •Status expiring before L-1 extension approved
- •Travel complications with pending applications
- •Changing to different visa status
- •Maintaining status after divorce
Newport Beach L-2 Services
- •L-2 EAD application preparation
- •Extension and renewal applications
- •Document organization and review
- •Status maintenance guidance
- •Green card pathway consultation
- •Arabic and English speaking staff
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:Can L-2 spouses work without an EAD?
A: No, L-2 spouses must have a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before starting work. Unlike H-4 holders prior to recent rules, L-2 spouses have long had the right to work but still need the EAD card.
Q:How long is the L-2 EAD valid?
A: The L-2 EAD is typically valid until the L-1 principal's status expires. If the L-1 holder extends their status, you'll need to apply for a new EAD.
Q:Can I start a business on L-2 status?
A: Yes! With a valid L-2 EAD, you can be self-employed, start a business, freelance, or work as an independent contractor without any restrictions.
Q:What happens if my spouse's L-1 expires?
A: Your L-2 status and work authorization end when the L-1 principal's status expires. You must either extend status, change to a different visa, or depart the US.
Q:Can I apply for a green card independently on L-2?
A: Yes, if you find an employer willing to sponsor you, you can pursue your own employment-based green card while on L-2 status with work authorization.
Q:Is there premium processing for L-2 EAD?
A: No, premium processing is not currently available for EAD applications. Standard processing times of 3-6 months apply.
Need L-2 Work Authorization in Newport Beach?
Let our experienced team help you obtain your L-2 EAD so you can work in America. We serve families throughout Orange County.
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